Kzoo Metro reduces bus service amid COVID surge

Kalamazoo Metro Transit is reducing fixed route bus service throughout the county in response to the rising rates of COVID-19 infections. The change is also a result of a lack of people to drive the buses.

In a post on its Facebook page on Tuesday, the transit service announced that changes will continue for the foreseeable future.

“In recent weeks, we have been seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases, as well as experiencing a driver shortage,” said Metro Transit Executive Director Sean McBride in a statement.

“Metro is committed to providing safe, reliable public transportation, but we also recognize that bus schedules may need to be adjusted to continue providing transit to those who need it the most without having large cuts in service.”

The changes consist of reduced frequency on many bus routes. Most changes will begin next Monday.

• Route 1 Westnedge will run half hour service from 5:45am to 5:45pm.
• Routes 9 Gull, 13 S. Burdick, and 16 Lovell will operate hourly Monday through Saturday.
• Beginning April 24, all Saturday routes will operate hourly until 6:08pm.

Metro Transit is continuing its policy of providing all transportation for free in order to reduce contact between riders and drivers.

You can read more on Facebook.