Saint John transit waives fares, asks riders to use rear doors amid coronavirus

Saint John Transit will begin waiving fares on Thursday in an effort to promote social distancing during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In a press release on Wednesday, the transit service said it is implementing the new system in order to keep passengers and transit drivers safe.

READ MORE: N.B. implementing COVID-19 assessment centres to reduce ER visits

The measure is not meant to encourage increased use of public transit, the organization said.

“Passenger who are feeling ill are asked to avoid using all transit services,” read the statement from Saint John Transit.

The organization is also asking that passenger use the rear doors of buses for boarding and exiting the bus.

Exceptions will be made for those disabilities, mobility issues and wheel chairs who need to use the the ramp available at the front door of the bus.

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Saint John Transit says they have already taken measures to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, including:

• Daily cleaning
• Enhanced disinfection procedures for high-touch areas such as hand straps, stop buttons, door and seat tops.
• Detailed cleaning as required for each bus
• Social distancing at the fare box

READ MORE: Saint John to offer only essential services during COVID-19 outbreak

The City of Saint John announced on Tuesday that only essential services will remain active in the community for the foreseeable future.

Police and fire response, as well the Saint John Emergency Emergency Management Organization (EMO), Saint John Water, road clearing and public communications remain active at this time.

The City of Saint John said on Wednesday that parking enforcement is not considered an essential service and will be suspended until further notice.

All city staff with the ability to work from home will do so until further notice.

With files from Tim Roszell