This week brings forth a new set of policies for customers of the Santa Cruz Metro Transit District bus system. In an interview with KSCO, Metro CEO Alex Clifford discusses how their staff will ensure riders are abiding by shelter in place orders. Starting with transit centers such as Pacific Station and Watsonville, security personnel and transit operators will inquire about travelers destinations. If riders provide an inadequate reason for travel, they will be rejected from being given a ride. Staff will also enforce the six feet social distancing rule as well.
Those who board Metro buses may only bring on items that can be stored on their lap. Passengers with large belongings or items that are deemed as part of non-essential travel will be rejected from riding Metro services.
An additional policy that has been implemented is that riders may not re-board a bus when it turns around at the end of its line. This policy is due to riders taking advantage of the free fares and engaging in non-essential travel.
Clifford also states that ridership is down by 90-percent. While that statistic may seem grim, Clifford is optimistic in the sense that the community is truly abiding by Shelter in Place Orders.
Santa Cruz Metro riders are encouraged to find out more information by calling 831.425.8600 or visiting their website SCMTD.Com
