RIBTA Re-Elects Darlington as Chairman, Waluk as Vice Chairman

The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority board voted Wednesday to re-elect David Darlington, of North Kingstown, as chairman and former Newport Mayor Stephen Waluk as vice chairman.   

Waluk was first appointed to the RITBA board by Governor Carcieri in 2005 and was recently reappointed by Governor Chafee for another four year term.

"I am happy to be re-elected as Vice Chair of the RITBA," said Waluk. "It is important that Newport and Aquidneck Island have a voice on this board."

Last year, Rhode Island's General Assembly approved to move two additional bridges into RIBTA's jurisdiction and install tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge to fund the maintenance. The law has been met by strong opposition by East Bay lawmakers and residents, who have argued that a toll would discourage tourists and have significant impacts on the the local economy.

Darlington has served on the RITBA board under three governors. During his tenure, he has led the agency into the electronic era by automating toll collection using the E-ZPass system, has improved the agency’s credit rating, and is overseeing the largest Pell Bridge improvement project since it was built – the $100 million steel restoration and painting project.

Fitch reaffirmed its “A” rating for RITBA’s outstanding revenue bonds this week, which fund bridge and deck improvements. 

“The board of directors, all unpaid volunteers, as well as the staff, take our commitment to this agency very seriously and spend a great deal of time to ensure that these important bridges remain in excellent condition for all who travel them,” said Darlington.  “The financial condition of the agency is of utmost concern because, as we all know, bridges require constant maintenance, which is expensive, so that they can live a long, useful life.”

Further Reading

• Feds Approve Tolls for Sakonnet River Bridge