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Hopkinton leaders, residents press state to preserve RIPTA Route 301, Route 95 park-and-ride
Summary
Councilors and residents urged state officials and RIPTA to keep the Westerly–Hopkinton Flex 301 and the Route 95 park-and-ride in service, citing impacts on elderly and low-income residents and students; the council discussed sending a formal letter to state lawmakers and RIPTA.
Hopkinton — At its meeting the Hopkinton Town Council discussed proposed cuts to Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) service, including the Westerly–Hopkinton Flex (Route 301) and a Route 95 park-and-ride, and debated town action to preserve the routes.
Council members and residents said the routes are a lifeline for elderly, low-income residents and University of Rhode Island students who use the service for appointments, shopping and commuting. Council members noted the town manager has already sent a letter to Representative Kennedy and Senator Morgan asking them to advocate to RIPTA for continuation of service.
Councilor Davis read the town-manager letter into the record and urged the council to add its voice. The letter flagged the potential impact on elderly residents in Saugatucket Springs and Kanachuk Cliffs and asked state legislators to press RIPTA not to eliminate the routes. The transcript records an effective date cited by speakers for proposed cuts as Sept. 13, 2025.
Public commenters and councilors discussed financial pressures cited by RIPTA: speakers said the state-level budget cuts are driving route reductions and noted RIPTA fares (a one-day pass was referenced at $6) and a reduced-fare program for low-income seniors and riders with disabilities. Steve Moff (resident) suggested the council also send the letter directly to the RIPTA board of directors and to "Joe Shikarti" (name used in testimony) and the majority senate leader who influence budget decisions.
No formal adoption vote on a council resolution was recorded during the meeting. Councilors indicated willingness to send a letter and to follow up with state lawmakers and RIPTA staff; several attendees urged more direct contact with the RIPTA board.
Next steps described in the meeting included drafting a council letter to Representative Kennedy, Senator Morgan and RIPTA leadership, and pursuing additional outreach if RIPTA does not respond. Councilors also discussed whether the town would consider support for fare adjustments to preserve service.
