Sacramento transit riders must enter buses through rear doors to slow coronavirus
Sacramento Regional Transit officials on Wednesday announced that bus riders will now be required to enter the vehicles through the rear doors as coronavirus precaution to slow the COVID-19 spread.
But RT bus passengers with disabilities who use ramps to enter, use mobility devices or need priority seating can continue to use the front door for boarding, according to a news release.
“While we are happy to report that no SacRT employee has tested positive for COVID19, implementing rear door boarding is an important precaution to help keep everyone safe,” officials said in the news release.
The rear door entrance requirement was among other RT changes made to halt the spread of COVID-19 and protect those vulnerable to the respiratory disease.
RT is installing a plexiglass barrier on each bus to protect the driver. RT also is adding a detachable chain barrier above the white line to further reduce exposure.
Officials said bus riders who pay with cash or with a paper ticket can pay their fare by depositing it in a metal box above the front wheel-well. They can then pick up a paper daily pass or transfer near the metal box after paying.
Connect Card users can tap their card at the Connect Card reader on the yellow pole, according to the news release. Zip Pass mobile fare app users must show their mobile device screen to the bus driver while standing behind the white line on the floor about 4 feet from the driver.
The transit service, which is deemed essential during the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to serve those who rely on public transit to get to work, access resources and seek medical treatment.
RT officials reminded all passengers to practice social distancing when riding buses and light rail vehicles by staying at least 6 feet away from other riders and operators, when possible.
RT riders can go online check updates on its COVID-19 page at sacrt.com/covid19 or its Twitter account and Facebook page, and sign up for email alerts.
