Coronavirus Update: Transit Agencies To Limit Passengers Aboard Buses, Ferries To Enforce Social Distancing
OAKLAND (CBS SF) -- Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District and the Golden Gate Bridge District announced revisions to passenger guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic which would limit the number of riders on buses and ferries to allow for adequate social distancing.
AC Transit says once a bus reaches the new passenger thresholds, buses would bypass stops until other passengers get off.
The Golden Gate Bridge District (GGBD), which operates Golden Gate Transit and Golden Gate Ferry, implemented similar changes on Wednesday, with the added measure of "strongly encouraging" bus passengers and ferry riders to wear face masks while on board, per guidance from the CDC.
AC Transit and the GGBD have established rear door boarding and is restricting a six-foot space around the bus driver compartment. To maintain social distancing among passengers, the agency is establishing the following passenger thresholds:
30-foot bus - 6 passengers
40-foot bus - 10 passengers (8 passenger limit for Golden Gate buses)
45-foot buses (GGBD only) - 10 passenger limit
60-foot articulated bus - 16 passengers
44-foot double decker bus - 24 passengers
Once each type of bus reaches new passenger limit, the bus driver will convert the external route sign to "Drop-Off Only" and bypass some stops, stopping only when riders are ready to get off. AC Transit said the new system may result in delays and passengers are asked to plan accordingly.
AC Transit also strongly encourages riders to follow CDC guidelines to wear a cloth face mask while on board and are asked to avoid interactions with the bus operator.
The passenger limit for Golden Gate ferries will depend on the vessel size as well. Once the limit is reached, ferry boarding will be restricted and buses will perform passenger drop-offs.
GGBD said it will continue to disinfect all buses and ferries daily while providing personal protective equipment to all bus drivers and ferry staff.
Information on the latest COVID-19 service updates and trip planning can be found at actransit.org or at goldengate.org.
