For Immediate Release December 8, 2021 Media Contact: Andy Cole Communication and Marketing Manager acole@tarta.com Office: 419.245.5213 Mobile: 567.249.5980
TARTA to Require Masks on Buses Through March 18
In accordance with a mask mandate extension by the Transportation Security Administration, the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) will now require masks on vehicles and in all TARTA facilities – including the downtown Transit Hub – through March 18, 2022.
The mandate for travelers nationwide was extended in response to a rise in coronavirus cases nationwide in relation to the Omicron variant. The TSA had previously imposed mask rules for travelers on flights, buses and trains in early 2021, and extended the mandate for travelers on flights, buses, and trains through Jan. 18.
Masks are also required for those in TARTA buildings, including the Transit Hub, the Central Avenue headquarters, and the TARPS paratransit facility.
“We are proud of the steps we have taken to ensure the safety and health of both customers and Team TARTA members over the course of an unprecedented pandemic,” said TARTA CEO Laura Koprowski. “We kept those factors in mind while still getting the people of Lucas County and Rossford where they needed to go.
“As we continue to navigate challenges posed by the coronavirus we are thankful for the willingness of our customers to keep the health and comfort of their fellow riders in mind. We are also, of course, thankful for our frontline workers who have been and will continue to be out there every day to keep people moving.”
Steps taken by TARTA to ensure the safety of passengers and employees during the pandemic have included:
Being one of the first transit systems in the nation to go fare-free, and continuing to not require fares.
Increased sanitation measures on all vehicles.
Making masks and hand sanitizer available to customers.
About TARTA
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 our region into the future of public transit.
