Employee policies that recognize and support the essential duties of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority’s (TARTA) workforce are being extended during the COVID-19 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 of 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.”
TARTA implemented these measures in March and April. 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 says it 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 a reduced schedule and runs Monday through Saturday.
