Beginning Monday, bus drivers across B.C. will restrict the number of riders on board to allow passengers to maintain appropriate social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
B.C. Transit said drivers may pass passengers at bus stops if they believe safe capacity has been reached, so travellers should give themselves plenty of time for their trips.
However, that’s not expected to happen because ridership has diminished so drastically. Ridership is down 50 to 70 per cent due to shut downs of post-secondary, primary and secondary schools, businesses and government agencies.
B.C. Transit has implemented several other measures, including having passengers enter and exit through rear doors, and stopping the collection of fares.
Jonathan Dyck, spokesman for B.C. Transit, said the measures are meant to slow the spread of COVID-19 while continuing a service that is essential for many people.
“We know there are people out there that still need us, whether it’s health care workers going to work or people going to the grocery store or to the pharmacies to fill a prescription,” he said
“So we are working very hard to keep service on the road right now.” If pass ups do occur, adjustments will be made.
