The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) launched Bus Buddy, a free program designed to make navigating public transit easier for new riders.

Whether someone is taking the bus for the first time, returning after a break, or learning a new route, the Bus Buddy program pairs them with a RIPTA staff member who will ride alongside and provide step-by-step guidance.

RIPTA’s Bus Buddies

Bus Buddies meet riders at the bus stop closest to their home and assist with everything from planning a trip to paying the fare and knowing when to exit the bus. 

The relaxed, one-on-one experience is designed to take the stress out of learning how to ride, said RIPTA officials. Bus Buddies are also available to answer any questions ahead of your scheduled trip.

A Bus Buddy can help with:

• Planning a trip and reading the schedule.

• Finding the correct bus stop.

• Using a Wave card or paying with cash.

• Boarding, choosing a seat, and requesting a stop.

• Navigating transfers.

“We recognize that using public transit can feel intimidating, which is why we launched Bus Buddy,” said Chief Executive Officer Christopher Durand. “The more comfortable people feel using the system, the more likely they are to choose RIPTA as part of their daily routine, which will help grow ridership and strengthen public transit in Rhode Island.”

The Bus Buddy program is free and open to anyone who wants to learn how to ride RIPTA, especially first-time riders, older adults, students, individuals with disabilities, or those transitioning to public transit. Riders are responsible for paying their own fare.