SMART implemented further bus service reductions last week as a way to better match service on the road with the reduced demand in light of the Stay Home Stay Safe initiative.
Officials said that ridership is at 80 percent less than a typical weekday, which has prompted SMART officials to reduce service an additional 40 percent. Since SMART implemented the initial 30 percent reduction, ridership has leveled off and remains steady.
“To ensure SMART can maintain its commitment to provide essential trips during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are adjusting service due to a substantially lower demand and a desire to control and limit deployment of our drivers,” said Robert Cramer, deputy general manager of SMART. “While transit workers aren't always acknowledged for the frontline roles in public emergencies, this crisis is demonstrating how important our service is for the public health and well-being in the region. Our drivers and supporting staff have been commendable throughout this on-going crisis.”
Service frequency is based on Sunday service hours, with the addition of commuter routes, according to a statement from SMART officials. SMART shuttles and Dial A Ride service will not operate.
To protect against overcrowding and promote social distancing for riders (maintaining a minimum of 6 feet between passengers whenever possible, SMART will place additional buses along the busiest corridors, at the ready, to join buses in service that are at or reaching a crowded passenger level.
SMART will continue free fare, rear-door boarding, and yellow chain separating drivers from passengers, mid-route cleaning and regular electrostatic spraying of all buses until the end of the emergency, officials said.
Updates on SMART service can be found at www.smartbus.org.
