With the start of the new year comes a new policy from the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD): a smoke and tobacco-free policy prohibiting the use of all smoke and tobacco products at MTD facilities and grounds, including Illinois Terminal.
MTD’s new policy applies to all smoke and tobacco products, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, cannabis, electronic devices (like e-cigarettes, vape pens or e-cigars) and chewing tobacco.
To allow passengers to safely board and alight the bus, smoke and tobacco products are not to be used at or within 15 feet of entrances, exits, windows and ventilation systems for all MTD spaces, which includes vehicles, bus stops, benches, shelters, parking lots and facilities.
MTD joins the ranks of other local organizations like the University of Illinois, Parkland College and area hospitals and medical facilities implementing similar policies on their grounds to promote a healthy community. This policy aligns with MTD’s commitment to provide safe mobility options for everyone, including customers who are most vulnerable to secondhand smoke such as children, seniors and those with chronic health concerns, like asthma and COPD.
MTD notes access to reliable transportation breaks down barriers to jobs, healthcare, education, and other essential needs; secondhand smoke should not be a barrier to the lifeline provided by transit.
While the existing Smoke Free Illinois Act covers many of the same concerns for enclosed spaces, MTD is expanding upon the ban to include all district properties, both indoor and outdoor, as well as increasing visibility and enforcement. Signs will be placed on building exteriors, fencing, entrances and inside all bus shelters.
MTD encourages all customers to help support the new policy. If patterns of ongoing smoke or tobacco use occur, customers may report the incident at 217.384.8188 or online. Supervisors and security will make an honest effort to address persistent violations. This policy will be handled in the same fashion as MTD’s other Rules of Conduct that protect customers and employees.
MTD says it thanks the public for their cooperation and understanding. A smoke and tobacco-free waiting area will be a breath of fresh air for customers, and may inspire others to get on board with transit.
