The Montgomery County Department of Transportation launched a program today to provide face coverings for passengers on buses who don’t have their own.
Face coverings are required during the coronavirus crisis to be worn on public transportation according to Gov. Larry Hogan’s executive order. Because of this, MCDOT is urging passengers to wear a face covering which could include a mask, scarf or bandana. If customers do not wear a face covering they could be asked not to board or to leave the vehicle, according to the county.
For customers who are unaware of the requirements or forget to bring a face covering, some buses will now be equipped with a limited supply of face coverings. The buses will receive the face coverings as they become available, although, select buses in the Silver Spring area will be the first to receive them, according to the county. MCDOT is hopeful that all Ride On buses will have face coverings by early May.
“We are grateful to the Department of General Services’ efforts to provide the supplies needed to help protect our riders,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “That said, I strongly encourage Ride On passengers to provide their own face coverings whenever possible and so we can reserve these spare coverings for those who have no alternative. I also want to reinforce that bus service is being provided for essential travel only.”
Ride On services are still temporarily free for all passengers. Although, passengers now must board at the rear door of the bus, according to the county. If a ramp is needed to accommodate a disability or stroller, passengers can board through the front doors. In addition, the number of passengers per bus is limited to help maintain social distancing guidelines.
