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3/26/2020
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) yesterday implemented a reduced service schedule across its system to adapt to falling ridership as riders stay home to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
According to the announcement, MTA New York City Transit's (NYCT) B, W, and Z subway lines will be suspended Monday through Friday; MTA Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) as of March 27 will run 240 fewer weekday trains; and MTA Metro-North Railroad service as of March 27 will be reduced by 50 percent to 424 trains.
Since the pandemic began, NYCT, LIRR and Metro-North logged ridership declines of 87 percent, 76 percent and 94 percent, respectively, MTA officials said in a press release.
The service changes will help reduce workplace density and ensure social distancing, including in crew rooms and other facilities, said MTA Chief Safety Officer Pat Warren.
Other U.S. passenger-rail agencies have also announced service adjustments in response to the pandemic. Following are the latest announcements:• Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority yesterday shut down light-rail service until further notice following notification to agency leadership that a light-rail operator trainee tested positive for COVID-19. Light-rail ridership has decreased 82 percent since March 17, when Santa Clara County, California, officials issued a stay-at-home order.• Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) on March 30 will begin operating daily rail service on a reduced weekend schedule. MARTA also closed Mercedes-Benz/State Farm Arena/GWCC station.• Brightline in Florida yesterday suspended rail service and laid off 250 out of more than 300 workers, The Miami Herald reported.