Raymond Studley, the CEO of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), today announced that he will not seek renewal of his contract to lead the agency. Studley had informed the RIPTA Board of Directors of his decision at their April meeting.

“Ray‘s successful tenure at RIPTA has been marked by his unwavering commitment and many contributions to the Agency’s success during the past four years,” said Wayne Kezirian, Chairman of the RIPTA Board of Directors. “RIPTA has tackled many challenging issues during that time and accomplished a great deal under Ray’s leadership.”

Kezirian noted that Studley’s efforts led to the elimination of a several million dollar deficit at the agency.

Studley began at RIPTA in 2012 when he was appointed to lead a resource team tasked with stabilizing RIPTA. He had previously served 23 years on the Rhode Island State Police, leaving the force as a Lieutenant Colonel, second in command of the Agency.

Under Studley’s direction, RIPTA has undertaken efforts to modernize, streamline, and improve the transit experience for its customers. These efforts included removing over 1,000 redundant stops, beginning the move to a multi-hub system in the downtown area, and working with RIDOT to create a state-of-the-art intermodal transit facility at the Providence Train Station. In addition, the “R Line,” a rapid bus transit line, was launched in 2014. Meanwhile, a Bus On Shoulder System (BOSS), which will significantly reduce trip times for passengers, is in the works.

“We are confident that the executive leadership team will build on the progress seen under Ray and continue to improve RIPTA,” said Kezirian. “Meanwhile the Board will conduct a thorough search to identify the right person to lead the agency into the future.”

Studley will work with the RIPTA Board over the next several months to assist in the transition process.