Ripta plans to purchase 20 hybrid buses

Providence, RI (WPRI) - The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority is set to receive 24.2 million dollars in federal funding. Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation made the announcement, and says RIPTA plans to use to the money to purchase 20 hybrid buses and to upgrade other public transportation systems throughout the state.

The money is being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The law was approved by President Obama in February. The state will also receive 350,000 dollars for the On-the-Job Training and Supportive Services program, which funds apprenticeships and training centers for Rhode Islanders seeking careers in transportation, engineering, or construction.