For some, staying at home isn’t an option. Also, they may have no choice but to use public transportation, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Understanding this, Trinity Metro is making temporary service adjustments to reduce the risk for customers and employees. Trinity Metro President and CEO Bob Baulsir said service modifications are being made to maintain operations and help passengers continue to reach their destinations in spite of the numerous shutdowns due to the Coronavirus.
““Our mission is to provide mobility options, and we want to ensure that our customers have transportation during this health crisis,” Baulsir said.
Beginning Monday (March 23), all regular bus service will operate on a modified Sunday schedule seven days a week. Routes that do not operate on Sunday, such as the downtown Lunch Line and 71-Forest Hill, will be temporarily suspended.
This schedule is planned for two weeks, after which Trinity officials said the status will be re-evaluted. If other changes are needed, Trinity Metro will provide updates three days before they are implemented.
Express routes 63X/64X and 65X will continue to operate on their regular schedules.
Also during this time, TEXRail will shift to an hourly service, based on the current schedule, seven days a week. Trinity Railway Express will operate six days a week based on its current Saturday schedule, with no service on Sundays.
In an effort to limit exposure to Coronavirus, Trinity Metro is offering free rides during the adjusted scheduling period on bus routes and TEXRail. It is designed to greatly reduce contact between operators and customers, as well as conductors and riders.
“Everyone can practice social distancing by reducing the exposure between staff and customers,” Baulsir said. “Providing a safe environment is vital for our customers and our employees.”
Because TRE is a shared service with DART, those passengers will need a ticket to ride.
The number of ACCESS rides (paratransit service) will be reduced, with a focus on only making essential trips. ZIPZONE services are not impacted by this temporary change.