Madison Metro transit will no longer collect ride fares starting Tuesday in an effort to combat the economic burden of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a Wisconsin State Journal report, Madison Metro is also asking passengers to enter and exit their vehicles using rear doors exclusively as a precautionary measure to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, and will implement both policies until April 20 at the earliest.
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Madison Metro’s actions come after Gov. Tony Evers issued a stay at home order requiring citizens to remain in their residences with the exception of essential activities, government functions, operating essential businesses and essential travel.
As COVID-19 infections in Wisconsin ballooned to over 450 cases and five confirmed deaths, organizations such as Madison Metro found themselves adjusting policies to accommodate for both the financial strain of a socioeconomic shutdown and the public health threat COVID-19 poses to customers.
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Earlier this month Madison Metro limited its bus capacity to 15 passengers and urged riders, especially those over 60 to seek alternate forms of transportation if possible.
