HSR begins modified schedules on most routes starting Monday

The HSR is moving forward with more changes to its services in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Starting Monday, most bus routes in Hamilton will move to a Saturday schedule.

HSR says there has been a decrease in boardings and it expects that trend to continue. By moving to a reduced schedule, the service will redeploy operators and add buses to other routes where there is a greater demand.

There are some exceptions and Sunday service remains unchanged.

“We are continuing to adjust schedules and are adding supplemental service on selected routes, to help mitigate crowding and improve social distancing,” said HSR officials in a news release last week.

Last Thursday, HSR began asking riders to board buses from the rear doors only, and to keep a fair distance from the bus drivers and other customers. Only customers with personal mobility devices are permitted to enter and exit through the front door.

The service also stopped fare collection on buses.

The changes are expected to remain in effect until at least April 5.

HSR has implemented several additional cleaning protocols to help avoid the spread of the virus.

The entire fleet has been wiped down with sanitization wipes, as well as a full bus antimicrobial fogging treatment.

Crews continue to wipe down all hard surfaces every other day with sanitization wipes in addition to the regular cleaning.

For a full list of schedule changes, visit the City of Hamilton website by clicking here.