New changes to HSR service will include limit of 10 riders per bus

HSR is implementing new changes to its service to ensure physical distancing for operators and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Starting Friday, the service will be restricting customer loads to 10 people on a 40 ft bus and 15 people on a 60 ft articulated bus. Signs will be posted on which seats are available for passengers to utilize.

Operators will be by-passing stops if they already have the max number of people on board or if there are concerns with physical distancing.

All customers, including those using walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, and other personal mobility devices, must enter and exit through the rear doors. Customers who require the ramp to get on and off the bus must be accompanied by a companion who can deploy the ramp under the direction of the operator.

HSR will now only be able to accommodate one wheelchair or scooter per bus regardless of the vehicle size.

“We can’t stress enough: travel on public transit is for essential trips only. Please leave public transit for those who really need to be on the bus at this time for essential reasons (ie. to get to work or medical appointments),” said the city in a news release.
“With these changes, there will be increased wait times. We encourage customers to plan to give yourself more time to get to your destination, as you may need to wait for a second, possibly third, or even fourth bus.”

HSR says the 2-Barton, 1-King, 5-Delaware, and 10-B line routes will experience the most significant impacts.