Pierce Transit offers free rides and new precautions during coronavirus outbreak
Pierce Transit announced it will begin suspending bus fares until further notice as a precaution to protect staff against the coronavirus.
Starting Monday, riders are asked to board buses using the rear doors to keep bus drivers safe, spokesperson Rebecca Japhet said. Because customers will use the back door to enter, the agency will not collect fares.
Those who need mobility assistance can continue to use the front doors.
Seats immediately behind the bus driver are roped off to encourage social distancing, Japhet said.
The agency’s administrative offices in Lakewood will close the public lobby to visitors on Tuesday. Those transit employees who can telework have been asked to do so, she said in a statement.
On Wednesday, Pierce Transit’s customer service office at the Tacoma Dome Station and the Bus Shop will be closed to visitors, but staff will be available by phone during weekdays.
Pierce Transit has taken additional cleaning measures, like disinfecting “high touch” places like handrails and grab bars throughout the day and cleaning buses when they arrive at transit centers.
Information about Pierce Transit’s services:
Toll-Free Line: 1-800-562-8109
Bus or SHUTTLE paratransit TTY for hearing impaired: 711
Pre-recorded information: 253.581.8000, Option 4
PierceTransit.org
