KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Fixed-route bus services will resume again in Kalamazoo County after being shut down as a precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Kalamazoo Metro Transit Authority has announced that fixed-route services will begin again with limited hours on Monday, May 18th as more state-imposed restrictions become lifted.
A news release by the Metro Transit Authority states that services will take place from 6:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, with fixed-route services continuing to be suspended on Sundays for the time being.
Hourly service during the timeframe will continue to be provided on all routes except for 21-Solon Kendall and 12-Duke. The authority said in the release that 1-Westnedge, and 2-Portage, 9-Gull, and 14-West Main will also operate additional services during weekdays.
Metro Transit previously decided to shut down most of its passenger services on April 2nd due to concerns of exposure to the virus.
Since then the public transportation organization has offered it’s metro connect service, a demand-response program that provides rides for vulnerable populations and essential workers in the region.
Executive Director Sean McBride told MLive that the Metro Connect service has provided trips for around 250 passengers each day since fixed-routes were suspended. The free service has been available for passengers looking to complete their work commute, access medical care, and make essential trips like picking-up groceries and medication.
That number is significantly lower than the 600 people who usually use the Metro Connect service during normal days and 8,500 individuals who are estimated to use fixed-route services on weekdays.
Metro officials announced in late March that bus fare would be waived during the pandemic period to ensure that local residents can access the public transportation service. McBride says that the waived bus fees will continue to be in place when fixed-route busses reopen to passengers.
Those riding the busses will be asked to use hand sanitizer upon entry, located toward the rear entrance of the vehicle. Face coverings will also be mandatory for anyone looking to utilize the service as a precaution to prevent COVID-19. Metro Transit says that face coverings must cover individuals’ nose and mouth, with masks, handkerchiefs, and scarves allowed.
McBride told MLive that the limited-hour services will continue for the foreseeable future, as the organization plans its response during these unprecedented times.
The lack of fare payments and allocated gas tax revenue during the past six weeks is presenting challenges to Metro Transit Authority’s operating budget.
Administrators are currently looking to the federal government for help, with several grant programs provided by congressionally passed stimulus measures expected to sustain many regional transportation providers during the pandemic.
Route information and updates on hours of service can be found at the Kalamazoo Metro Transit Authority’s website or by calling (269) 337-8222.
