Transit Update: RIPTA’s board has authorized design, engineering and pricing work for a new Providence bus hub that would move the main downtown operation from Kennedy Plaza to parcels beside Providence Station on Francis Street, with a future “firm, fixed” construction price still to be set. Housing & Local Economy: The long-vacant “Superman” building at 111 Westminster St. could see more state support, as the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation is set to consider additional funding tied to a sales tax rebate and an “additional award” under the First Wave Closing Fund. Homelessness: Woonsocket’s OpenDoors shelter will stay open another year and expand from 50 to 75 beds, pending City Council approval, with part of the city’s opioid settlement funding earmarked for operations and services. Public Safety & Environment: Rhode Island officials are urging residents to keep squashing spotted lanternflies as the invasive insect is now established statewide, with guidance on finding and destroying egg masses. Business Watch: Bally’s, which operates Rhode Island’s two casinos, warned regulators about debt concerns and “substantial doubt” over liquidity—raising questions for the local gaming footprint. Local Weirdness: A “Squidpocalypse of ’26” truck rollover in Narragansett spilled squid and shut down an intersection for hours. Health: COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in all 50 states, according to CDC modeling. Defense & Tech: REGENT tested its Squire seaglider drone and electronic warfare payloads during the Silent Swarm U.S. military exercise.