Starting Wednesday, April 8, Rural Community Transportation (RTC) will change its shuttle bus service to a dial-a-ride system, the agency announced. The move is meant to protect drivers and passengers during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Jay-Lyn, Jay-Lyn Express, and Highlander shuttles will operate on a call-ahead basis for trips to essential goods and services in St. Johnsbury, Lyndonville, Newport, Derby, and Derby Line. Riders must call 802-748-8170 at least one business day in advance to schedule a ride.
“We continue to ask all passengers to refrain from using the bus if you are able to self-transport in order to maximize social distancing and minimize the risk of transmission,” RTC said in a statement.
Bus capacity will be limited to allow for social distancing, and passengers will be asked to leave at least one empty row of seats between themselves and others, including the driver. Ride coordinators will screen callers for potential COVID-19 exposure, symptoms, and whether the trip qualifies as essential. Trips may be approved or denied based on the screening.
Photo: Thanh Long Bùi via Pexels. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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