Rhode Island DOT offers free commuter-rail trips through year's end

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is offering free in-state commuter-rail trips through the remainder of 2017.

The move is aimed at raising awareness of the state's rail services and encouraging Rhode Islanders to choose trains over their cars, RIDOT officials said in a press release.

The department began offering the free trips on July 3. Travelers can ride for free on trains running between the Wickford Junction, T.F. Green and Providence stations.

However, if riders wish to continue to Boston, they're required to purchase tickets.

"Rhode Island ranks on the bottom when it comes to the percentage of travelers who use transit as opposed to cars, yet we have the infrastructure and train service to make it easy for people to get around our state without a car," said RIDOT Director Peter Alviti Jr. "Making it free for a period of time will make more people aware of this great service and provide them an opportunity try it and use it on a regular basis."