NJ Transit outlines service recovery guidelines

New Jersey Transit earlier this week released guidelines detailing its steps aimed at protecting riders and employees as the region reopens during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The guidelines provide “clear and simple” actions that riders and employees should take to contribute to a safe return to service, NJ Transit officials said in a press release.

The plan calls for riders and transit employees to wear face coverings while on trains, practice social distancing and avoid loud talking and restrict phone conversations on trains.

“While we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the cleanest and safest transit environment, we can’t do it alone. We are asking customers and employers to do their part as well,” NJ Transit President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Corbett said.

Under the plan, NJ Transit also will monitor and identify trends in ridership and rider behavior to ensure the recovery plan remains responsive and flexible, agency officials said.

The agency will continue to disinfect vehicles daily.

To learn more about how the pandemic has affected NJ Transit, read this feature article in the June issue of Progressive Railroading.

Meanwhile, other North American passenger railroads are adopting measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Following are updates by transit agency or railroad:

• the Toronto Transit Commission's board yesterday made face coverings mandatory for rail riders; 
• the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon introduced ultraviolet lamps as part of its disinfecting efforts on trains; and
• Rocky Mountaineer in Vancouver, British Columbia, extended the suspension of its 2020 travel season until Aug. 30. The travel season was previously suspended until July 31.