NextStop Blog

Metro Transit has made several adjustments to policies and transit operations in the past two weeks to support the safety of riders and employees, while continuing to provide critical transportation services during the COVID-19 crisis. To support these efforts, Metro Transit is strongly encouraging everyone to use MetroLink, MetroBus and Metro Call‑A‑Ride for essential trips only.

“We’ve been hearing from hospital workers, grocery store employees and others about how vital transit is to them during this challenging time for our region. They rely on Metro to get them to work and to doctor’s appointments and medical treatments,” said Taulby Roach, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bi-State Development. “We can better serve those workers and individuals who need Metro if we all do our part and limit our travel to essential trips only. This will help prevent overcrowding on buses and trains, and minimize potential exposure to our riders and operators.”

Due to lower ridership and fewer workforce resources available, MetroLink and MetroBus are currently operating on a modified weekend schedule on weekdays. In addition, service on several low-ridership MetroBus routes has been temporarily suspended. With this reduced service frequency, Metro is shifting available personnel and vehicles to minimize overcrowding and maintain safe social distancing.

Limiting public transit trips only for essential purposes is an important part of these public health efforts, and Metro Transit has four suggestions for all transit users to consider before they begin their bus or train commute:

• Stay home if you can.
  Everyone is encouraged to comply with the regional Stay at Home/Shelter in Place order, and limit travel to essential trips only.
• Do not ride transit if you have any symptoms.
  If you have a fever, respiratory issues or any other symptoms, please do not ride Metro Transit.
• Adjust your transit commutes to non-peak travel times.
  If you do need to take Metro Transit, try to avoid traveling during morning and evening rush hours.
• Try to keep a safe distance away from operators and fellow passengers.
  Please try to maintain social distancing from other passengers when you are on the bus or train, and remain behind the yellow or orange stripes that are located on the floors near MetroBus and MetroLink operators.

For more information on adjustments to transit services and policies in response to the COVID-19 crisis, and the steps Metro Transit is taking to protect riders and transit employees, visit metrostlouis.org/health.