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April 13, 2021

Metro Reducing Service in Response to Rising COVID-19 Cases and Driver Shortage

Kalamazoo, MI – Metro’s fixed route buses will be reducing hours to the fixed route bus system starting Monday, April 19 due to the number of COVID-19 cases increasing in the community and a driver shortage for the transit system.   

Changes to the bus schedule include:

• Route 1 Westnedge will have half hour service from 5:45 am to 5:45 pm Monday through Friday. 
• Route 9 Gull, 13 South Burdick, and 16 Lovell will discontinue half-hour service and operate hourly Monday through Saturday.
• Starting April 24, all Saturday bus routes will operate hourly until 6:08 pm.

These route changes will be until further notice.  Detailed schedule information and updates are available at kmetro.com or by calling (269) 337-8222.  Metro information is also available on Facebook and Twitter.

“In the recent weeks, we have been seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases in the community as well as experiencing a driver shortage.  As a system, 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,” stated Sean McBride, Executive Director for Metro. 

Since March 2020, Metro has provided free rides on both the fixed route Metro system as well as the demand response system, Metro Connect.  Metro Connect continues to be available to those needing essential transportation after 10 pm Monday through Saturday and from 8 am – 6 pm on Sunday by calling (269) 350-2970.  “Right now, we don’t see a return to front door boarding on the fixed route system or charging fares for both systems.  What we do ask is that individuals use the bus for essential trips, such as to work, groceries, or medical appointments.  Consolidating trips and traveling when necessary allows for everyone to ride when needed,” McBride continued.

Due to Federal requirements, passengers will be asked to have a face mask on that covers both the nose and mouth when boarding and while riding the bus.  Face coverings such as bandanas, scarves, and gators will not be allowed on the bus.  

Apply to be a part of the Metro team!  Job postings listed at https://www.kmetro.com/employment

In compliance with theauthority of Senate Bill 1246 adopted December 15, 2020 Amending the Open Meetings Ace for Participation in Public Meetings the CCTA/KCTA Regular Board Meeting will be held electronically via Zoom.  Instructions will be available on the CCTA/KCTA web packet prior to the meeting.  The next CCTA/KCTA Board Meeting will be held on June 14, 2021.

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