Transit Windsor will resume limited operations on Monday, May 4.
The system will operate on an enhanced Sunday service until at least the end of May.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens ordered the suspension of transit service on March 27, 2020 due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19. Dilkens said as the situation evolves and they have had time to implement additional safety measures, he now feels comfortable reopening the service.
"Certainly we're not out of the woods but [Medical Officer of Health] Dr. Ahmed has indicated that we're in a stable position. We know that being in a stable position as a region we know that there will be a period of time that we can ramp up service," said Dilkens.
In an effort to enforce physical distancing measures, only 10-15 people will be allowed on each bus at one time.
"It will be a struggle and it will be a challenge for us to manage this," said Pat Delmore, executive director of Transit Windsor. "We are asking the public to please remember that these are for essential trips only. We recognize the importance of public transit in our community and there are people that do need our buses to get to and from work, to and from groceries, getting essential travel in. If you are making a non-essential trip you could very well be denying a passenger who does need to get to work that trip. We will likely bypass people along the routes as we travel through the city. We will be doing our best to add in additional buses where ever possible."
All riders with the exception of those with mobility issues will be required to board the bus at the back. All fares will be waived at this time.
High touchpoints on the bus will be disinfected each time the bus finishes a line and each bus will get a "deep clean" nightly. Bus drivers will be provided with masks and gloves if they choose to wear them but it will not be required. They will also be provided with hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
Anyone who needs to take transit is asked to review public health guidelines for using public transit. The guidelines include maintaining a two-metre distance between yourself and other riders and disinfecting your hands before and after entering the bus.
Mayor Dilkens has also decided he will not extend the order for the closure of Tecumseh Mall and Devonshire Mall, however, most stores will be required to stay closed under provincial emergency orders.
