The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) Board of Directors approved a contract with Next Wave Rhode Island Partners for Phase 1 of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to design and construct a new transit center in Providence, Rhode Island, USA.

The new transit center will serve as RIPTA’s central bus depot, providing millions of trips annually, and considering anticipated growth, the transit center will feature a temperature-controlled passenger arrival and seating area, staff break areas, and amenities including multi-modal accommodations for bicyclists.

Next Wave Partners is a consortium comprising various companies based in Rhode Island, such as Gilbane Development Company, Marsella Development, Gilbane Building Company, Plenary Americas, CUBE 3, and Jacobs. Collaborating with RIPTA, Next Wave Partners will undertake a two-phase process to finalize the construction of the new transit center. In the initial phase, they will conduct site studies, engage with the public, pursue permits and third-party approvals, and create conceptual designs at 30% and 60% completion. After incorporating feedback and finalizing designs, the consortium will provide cost estimates, financial structuring, and advisory services for the project. Upon the successful completion of the first phase, negotiations will commence for a second-phase contract covering financing and construction. RIPTA anticipates that Phase 1 will span the next 18 months.