x
Breaking News
More () »

TARTA now requires riders to wear facial coverings to prevent spread of COVID-19

Starting on Saturday, TARTA riders will now be required to wear a cloth or paper face mask while riding TARTA vehicles.

TOLEDO, Ohio — Starting April 11, TARTA riders will now be required to wear a cloth or paper face mask while riding TARTA vehicles.

The transportation service says the policy is to further protect drivers and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

TARTA says riders should only use the service for essential trips. TARTA says they are currently transporting around 1,500-1,600 riders a day in the Toledo metro area.

“Our top priority is to protect our employees and bus riders,” said Kimberly Dunham, TARTA General Manager. “We have taken swift action, often before the transit industry at large, by implementing protective protocols such as fare free, rear door boarding, 10 passenger limit per fixed route bus, shadow service for overflow, and social distancing barrier between the driver and riders. I credit our strong partnership with labor leaders representing TARTA employees and our collective goal of protecting our people as part of our success during this crisis.”

On April 10, TARTA says ambassadors will be at the Hub on Cherry Street to educate riders about the new policy.

For transportation resource information and COVID-19 safety guidance, call 211 or visit TARTA's website.

RELATED: Detroit bus driver who posted video about coughing rider dies from COVID-19

RELATED: Ohio Coronavirus Update | April 8: 1st corrections officer in the state dies of COVID-19; Apple donates 100,000 N-95 masks

Facts not fear: Putting COVID-19 into context

WTOL 11’s coverage of the coronavirus is rooted in Facts, not Fear. Visit wtol.com/coronavirus for comprehensive coverage, find out what you need to know about northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan specifically, learn more about the symptoms, and keep tabs on the cases around the world here. Have a question? Text it to us at 419-248-1100.

Protect yourself from coronavirus

  • Cover: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Dispose: Throw used tissues in a lined can.
  • Wash hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
  • Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available, use and alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.
  • Avoid touching: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Before You Leave, Check This Out