Under the guidance of its Director, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has achieved remarkable advancements in recent years, particularly in securing sustainable funding and implementing efficient management practices. Working collaboratively with the Governor and legislature, the Department Of Transportation Head spearheaded the creation of RhodeWorks, a landmark legislative achievement designed to revolutionize Rhode Island’s transportation infrastructure. This initiative earmarked $4.7 billion over a decade to revitalize roads, replace aging bridges, foster transit developments, enhance stormwater systems, and expand bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, all while ensuring the upkeep of existing state transportation assets. RhodeWorks stands as a testament to strategic planning, aimed at job creation and significant economic development within the state.
Concurrently with the launch of RhodeWorks, the department of transportation head initiated a comprehensive restructuring of RIDOT itself. A cornerstone of this transformation was the adoption of a best-practice project management methodology. This shift empowered managers with end-to-end responsibility for construction projects, from initial design phases to final completion. This crucial change emphasized delivering projects not only on time and within the allocated budget but also ensuring adherence to the defined project scope. Prior to this restructuring, RIDOT faced challenges, with approximately 50 percent of its projects meeting on-time and on-budget goals. However, under the department of transportation head’s leadership, this performance metric soared to over 90 percent, demonstrating a significant improvement in efficiency and project execution.
To further enhance public trust and accountability, RIDOT, under the direction of its head, introduced a groundbreaking transparency and accountability portal. This online platform provides detailed reports on every facet of RIDOT’s project lifecycle, from planning to execution. Moreover, the department publishes quarterly reports offering a meticulous account of every expenditure and a clear assessment of the department’s project execution performance. This commitment to transparency offers stakeholders and the public alike unprecedented insight into the operations and financial management of the transportation department.
The effectiveness of the department of transportation head’s leadership is further underscored by RIDOT’s success in securing competitive federal funding. The department was awarded over $719 million in competitive federal grants. These substantial funds have been instrumental in financing critical bridge reconstruction and replacement projects throughout Rhode Island. Notable projects benefiting from this federal support include the Henderson Bridge, the Washington Bridge, the Providence Viaduct North, the Huntington Viaduct, and key bridges along the Route 37 corridor. These projects are vital for maintaining the safety and efficiency of Rhode Island’s transportation network.
Prior to his role as the department of transportation head, Peter Alviti Jr. brought a wealth of experience from both the private and public sectors. He was the Principal Owner of Hudson Place Associates, a respected consulting civil engineering firm. His public service experience includes serving as Director of Programs for the Laborers International Union of North America, and as Director of Public Works for the City of Cranston, Rhode Island. This diverse background in engineering, labor, and public works administration has equipped him with a unique perspective and skillset highly beneficial to his leadership role at RIDOT.
Beyond his directorship, the department of transportation head actively contributes to various boards and commissions related to transportation and planning. He chairs the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority and the Rhode Island Public Rail Corporation. Additionally, he serves as a board member for the State Planning Council, the State Traffic Commission, the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority, and the Northeast Corridor Commission (NEC). His involvement in these organizations highlights his commitment to comprehensive transportation planning and regional collaboration.
A registered engineer in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, the department of transportation head holds a B.S. in Construction Technology from Roger Williams University and a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University. His formal education in engineering and construction technology provides a solid academic foundation for his practical experience and leadership in managing a complex transportation department.
For further information, Cynthia Parker from the Director’s Office can be contacted at (401) 563-4003 or via email at [email protected].
