For Immediate Release Media Contact: Laura Koprowski, Chief Communications and Customer Experience Officer lkoprowski@tarta.com Office: 419.245.5219 Mobile: 419.764.5951
TARTA Extends COVID-19 Employee Policies Recognizing Essential Work Duties
(TOLEDO, OH- May 13, 2020) – The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) is extending employee policies that recognize and support the essential duties of its workforce during the coronavirus pandemic. TARTA General Manager Kimberly Dunham announced the extension of the following benefits and policies through May 29, 2020:
Front-line pay for employees at high risk exposure to COVID-19 due to extensive contact with the public and vehicles such as drivers, mechanics and bus cleaners;
Employee stipends to purchase personal protective equipment. TARTA also provides employees with hand sanitizer, masks and gloves as they are available;
Modified work schedules to minimize exposure;
Social distancing practices for employees and customers; and
Sanitizing and disinfecting all work areas and vehicles.
“Continuation of these policies is just one way to thank our employees’ outstanding and vital work during these challenging times,†said Dunham. “TARTA will continue to take all measures necessary to protect our employees and customers, while doing our part to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.â€
By first enacting these measures in March and April, TARTA was a state and national leader in swiftly implementing policies to respond to the coronavirus. Currently, TARTA is transporting approximately 1,400 customers per day on its fixed-route and paratransit services. With the gradual re-opening of Ohio businesses, TARTA anticipates ridership to increase as additional essential trips to work will take place. The Authority reminds the community to only utilize TARTA for essential trips of work, medical appointments, and necessary shopping at the pharmacy and grocery stores. All customers are required to wear facial coverings, which TARTA is providing to customers at-no cost if needed.
TARTA fixed-route bus service continues to be on reduced schedule and running Monday through Saturday. For more details about service, visit www.tarta.com or call the information line at 419-243-RIDE (7433) Monday-Saturday, 8:15am – 6pm.
The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides a vital link in the Toledo metro area to jobs, education, health care and other destinations. It enables everyone in our community to have access to transportation regardless of their age, race, physical ability or economic background. TARTA is underway with exploring and introducing new initiatives and service options that will enhance convenience and customer experience while moving Toledo into the future of public transit.
