The changes take effect April 18.
The city said there has been a 70-per-cent decrease in ridership on weekdays and a 50-per-cent drop on weekends.
“The community’s response to prevent the spread of the virus has resulted in an average of less than 15 passengers per bus during peak times on major routes,” the city said today.
GOVA Transit said its goal is to continue to meet the transportation needs of residents at a maximum of 50-per-cent capacity per bus to ensure proper physical distancing. Reduced schedules and suspended routes will free available resources to deploy two buses whenever possible at peak times on heavier travelled routes.
GOVA transit continues to be fare-free at this time, and passengers must continue to enter and exit buses through the rear doors except for accessibility purposes.
The downtown transit hub at 9 Elm St. remains temporarily closed, but buses continue to pick up and drop off passengers from the outside platforms. Passengers are encouraged to practice physical distancing at bus stops and at the downtown hub.
GOVA Transit continues to monitor service on a daily basis. Further adjustments may be necessary based on operator availability and ongoing rider demand.
Passengers with questions or concerns about new routes and schedules are encouraged to contact GOVA Transit at [email protected] or at 705-675-3333.
