Coronavirus News #12 ● for GBT Riders & the Public ● June 11, 2020
Bus Service Expansion with State’s Phased Reopening
Effective Sunday, June 14, 2020
On Sunday, June 14, 2020, service modifications will go into effect, in anticipation of increased demand and requests for service by riders and business owners. This service change will increase the amount of scheduled service GBT is operating, ahead of the State of Connecticut’s scheduled June 17th reopening. Under this expanded service plan, riders can access essential destinations in the GBT service area and service will begin earlier and end later than it currently does. This service plan also allows for the continued use of “shadow buses”, to help reduce crowds on buses and passbys by full buses.
Here’s an overview of all bus service, effective 6/14/2020:
- Routes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 13 and 15 are running a Modified Monday-Saturday schedule and a regular Sunday schedule on Sundays. There is now an earlier start time and a later end time.
- Route 1, is running a Modified Monday-Friday schedule, a Modified Saturday schedule, and a regular Sunday schedule on Sundays. There is now an earlier start time and a later end time.
- Coastal Link (CL) is running a modified weekday schedule Monday through Friday, and a modified Saturday schedule on Saturdays. CL is running a regular Sunday schedule on Sundays. There is now an earlier start time and a later end time.
- Route 5 is running a more frequent Modified Monday-Saturday schedule and a regular Sunday schedule on Sundays. There is now an earlier start time and a later end time. All trips will service Commerce Dr, Black Rock Tpk and Brewster St.
- Route 9 is running a Modified Monday-Friday schedule, Modified Saturday schedule, and a regular Sunday schedule on Sundays. Monday-Friday includes hourly Quarry Rd service arriving at Quarry Rd from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Saturday does not include Quarry Rd service. There is now an earlier start time and a later end time.
- Route 19x, 22x, and 23 are running a modified schedule with each running one morning and one afternoon trip Monday through Friday.
- Route 7 is temporarily suspended – Riders should use the Coastal Link (CL).
- Route 17 is temporarily suspended.
Riders should note that the Bus Tracker and other electronic signage will be limited or unavailable during this time as it will be inaccurate and not reflect these changes.
These changes will be in effect until further notice as GBT is continuing to monitor developments regarding the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
Face Coverings Required on Buses
Riders should practice social distancing and wear masks to prevent the spread of the virus. Most are cooperating and we thank you for that.
Some riders are still traveling without masks or face coverings of any kind. This is a danger to themselves and other riders.
On Saturday, April 18, 2020, Connecticut Governor Lamont issued an Executive Order requiring the use of masks in public spaces where social distancing is difficult. This includes riding the bus.
Enter and Exit the Bus Through The Rear Doors
Drivers will not be enforcing fare collections during this crisis and the date for the start of enforcement of fare collection is not yet known. Enter and exit through the rear doors of the bus. This will help maintain social distancing to protect drivers and passengers alike. Riders with mobility devices and those requiring the “kneeling” of the bus, may, of course, use the front door.
Reducing the Number of Riders Per Bus
If the buses have too many people on them, we may have to pass by riders waiting at bus stops. Riders will have to wait for the next bus. If this happens, you will see a “Next Bus Please” on the destination sign.
On the busiest routes and times of day, we may run “Shadow Buses” ─ a second bus behind the first bus ─ to pick up any people who are still waiting. We may not be able to do this on all routes at all times due to the number of buses and drivers we have.
Stay Away From the Bus Driver
Don’t interact with the bus driver unless you have a special need. Respect the driver’s space. Always leave at least six feet between you and the bus driver.
Bus drivers are working on the front lines to insure people can get to essential jobs at medical facilities and other places like grocery stores and pharmacies.
We need our bus drivers to stay healthy so we can all get through this together. Bus drivers are doing important work and are providing a necessary public service.
Don’t Ride Just Because It’s Free
The temporary cessation of fare collection during this crisis has been implemented to protect drivers and riders by reducing interactions and to stop people from touching the fare box.
Don’t Get on the Bus if You Are Sick
Don’t travel in public if you are sick or suspect you may be sick.
All Riders Must Exit the Bus During Layovers
At the end of each trip, the driver will be instructing all riders to exit the bus during the layover. This is for everyone’s protection. Please follow the direction of your driver.
Remember These Simple Guidelines
- Wear a mask or face covering.
- Stay away from others.
- Do not travel if you are sick or suspect you may be sick.
- Do not travel if you do not have to.
- Cover your cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands with soap and water often.
- Use hand sanitizer frequently.
More Info >>
Our bus drivers are counting on you to do the right thing.
We All Need Bus Drivers
Our ability to provide continued service depends on the health and availability of our drivers and other employees. It is critical that we all work together to follow these rules so that our community is strong and resilient.
Help us let bus drivers know how much we value the work they are doing ─ send a Thank You to our bus drivers online. We will make sure that our bus drivers get the messages that you send in.
Thank Bus Drivers >>
For Essential Employers
We are working with area businesses and leaders to ensure that essential workers can still get to jobs. If you are an Essential Employer that has workers impacted by recent service changes or service during the phased reopening, please contact us.
Contact GBT >>
Service Announcements
Visit gogbt.com, Facebook, and twitter daily to check for service announcements.
Stay Connected
Please check in regularly. You can always get the latest information in these places:
gogbt.com/prevention
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