Valley Metro Reduces Bus Service

Starting Monday, Valley Metro reduced its Express and RAPID bus service schedules with fewer trips each weekday morning and evening.

“This is a proactive step to maintain local bus route service for those who fully rely on public transit for critical trips,” the agency said in a news release.

A complete list of schedule reductions and changes can be found on Valley Metro’s website.

Recently, Valley Metro has seen a reduced demand as the coronavirus pandemic escalates. Valley Metro strongly recommends riders take only essential and critical trips to help maintain Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 6-foot social distancing guidelines.

Local bus, circulators and light rail continue to operate on regular schedules. The agency did warn that those services re being watched for any possible adjustments.

“Public transit continues to serve as a lifeline for essential workers in the healthcare, government and social service sectors,” said Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith, in the news release.

“We are reallocating our skilled workforce of operators, supervisors and maintenance workers to focus on our local bus routes at this time,” Smith continued.

Valley Metro has instituted some temporary safety measures on their buses and the light rail.

Bus riders are being asked to get on through the rear door as a way to keep distance between operators and passengers. In addition, seats near the front, by the operator are being blocked off for the safety of operators and riders.

Valley Metro has also enhanced their cleaning regimen for their buses, light rail and transit vehicles. The agency has also increased their cleaning regimen.