EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority's board of directors has named interim CEO Chris Durand as the agency's permanent CEO. "I would like to thank the Board of Directors for the opportunity to serve as RIPTA’s Chief Executive Officer," Durand said. "I am honored to continue working alongside our dedicated employees who work tirelessly every day to keep Rhode Island moving." Durand has been serving in an interim capacity since April, after the exit of then-CEO Scott Avedisian. READ MORE: Scott Avedisian to receive $68K as part of exit agreement with RIPTA RIPTA said Durand's selection came after a nationwide search led by a firm called Merraine Group. His contract is expected to be approved during December's board meeting. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW