TARTA waives bus fare, closes Hub to combat spread of COVID-19

TOLEDO, Ohio — Starting Tuesday, TARTA passengers can hitch a ride for free until further notice.

This includes TARTA fixed-line, TARPS and Call-A-Ride.

The move is part of an effort to minimize the spread of germs on fare boxes and to encourage social distancing between drivers and passengers amid ongoing concerns about coronvirus.

“The onset of coronavirus has resulted in our taking unprecedented measures to protect our staff and riders,” TARTA General Manager, Kim Dunham said. “The interaction at the farebox results in an extended period of time for human interaction and our goal is to ensure boarding that allows the rider to get to their seat in the most expeditious fashion and align with social distancing protocols. We continue to sanitize and disinfect our vehicles daily.”

In addition, TARTA announced that contracted cleaning crews will be on site deep cleaning all TARTA and TARPS buses.

As part of the plan to lessen contact, the TARTA Transit Hub located at 525 Cherry Street will be closed beginning on Wednesday, March 18. To stay aligned with county and state precautionary measures to limit group gatherings, this public space will be closed until further notice.

TARTA employees are making continued efforts to disinfect buses and high-traffic areas like handrails, waiting areas and fare boxes. 

“We encourage everyone to stay at home and socially distance themselves as much as possible, but we also understand the needs of the transit dependent, seniors, disabled residents and those seeking medical care that rely on our service. We ask riders to take every precaution possible to limit the spread of COVID-19 and only take rides that are absolutely necessary," Dunham said.

Rear-door boarding will also be implemented to ensure proper social distancing for drivers, with the exception of elderly and disabled riders.

Reduced fare card sales and ADA Certification in-person interviews have also been suspended.

All TARTA facilities will be limited to essential employees and non-essential employees will work from home starting Wednesday.

TARTA leaders said they will continue to follow the recommendations of the CDC, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, the Ohio Department of Health and the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department.  

We will continue to keep you updated.

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• Dispose: Throw used tissues in a lined can. 
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• Avoid touching: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.