Metro Transit strongly encourages bus passengers to wear masks

In addition, Metro Transit said only 10 passengers will be permitted on 40-foot buses, and 15 on 60-foot buses.

April 16, 2020 at 11:38AM
A man wore a protective mask as he ran with bags of groceries to a bus Saturday on Nicollet Mall.
A man wore a protective mask as he ran with bags of groceries to a bus on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Metro Transit announced new steps on Wednesday to promote social distancing on its buses, including a suggestion that passengers wear a mask or face covering while aboard.

The new policy effect Thursday. Howie Padilla, agency spokesman, said the mask suggestion will not be enforced but is "strongly encouraged."

In addition, Metro Transit said only 10 passengers will be permitted on 40-foot buses, and 15 on 60-foot buses.

If a bus is full, its overhead display will say "Next Bus Please" to notify waiting customers that they should wait for the next bus, according to the new guidelines. As soon as enough passengers leave the bus, the sign will be turned off and boarding can resume, the transit agency said.

Metro Transit can only be used for essential trips in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, a bus driver trainee tested positive for the coronavirus, but Metro Transit said he had no contact with the public.

Janet Moore • 612-673-7752 @ByJanetMoore

A Metro Transit bus driver on Nicollet Mall was one of several wearing a mask on Saturday, March 21, in downtown Minneapolis.
A Metro Transit bus driver on Nicollet Mall was one of several wearing a mask on Saturday, March 21, in downtown Minneapolis. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Metro Transit buses will limit passengers beginning April 16 to promote social distancing. ORG XMIT: MIN2003232005522823
Metro Transit buses will limit passengers beginning April 16 to promote social distancing. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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about the writer

Janet Moore

Reporter

Transportation reporter Janet Moore covers trains, planes, automobiles, buses, bikes and pedestrians. Moore has been with the Star Tribune for 21 years, previously covering business news, including the retail, medical device and commercial real estate industries. 

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