COVID-19 Update: Loading HSR buses through rear doors

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton today is announcing additional proactive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Hamilton.

Beginning tomorrow, March 19, until at least April 5, HSR customers are being asked to board buses from the rear doors only, and to keep a fair distance from the bus operators and other customers. Only customers with personal mobility devices (PMD) will permitted to enter and exit through the front door.

As a result, HSR will not be collecting fares until further notice.

Customers are asked to stay behind the yellow line at the front of the bus, and to keep the seat(s) behind the operator free at all times.

HSR continues to be a safe method of travel, this is a precautionary measure in an effort to increase social distancing, particularly for bus operators.

Saturday Service

As a reminder, beginning Monday, March 23, the HSR will be using a Saturday schedule from Monday to Friday, across most routes. There are some exceptions, and all details will be posted on www.hamilton.ca/hsr. Current Saturday and Sunday schedules will continue and remain unchanged. Where required, revised timetables are being finalized and will be available by March 20, 2020.

Cleaning Protocols

In addition to our daily standard cleaning protocol, we are performing regular hard surface wipe downs and antimicrobial fogging treatments. We are currently wiping down all hard surfaces every other day with sanitizing wipes in addition to regular cleaning.

HSR remains committed to the health and safety of our staff and customers and is continuing to consult with City of Hamilton Public Health Services during this time.

“I would like to thank our operators for their continued dedication. I can’t stress enough the professionalism they have shown in the face of on-going uncertainty. We have been working with their Union executive to ensure we are able to provide a service that meets their needs and the needs of our customers.” - Debbie Dalle Vedove, Director of Transit, City of Hamilton

Additional Resources

• For regular City of Hamilton COVID-19 updates, please visit www.hamilton.ca/coronavirus and www.hamilton.ca/covidclosures
• Visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19
• Public Health Services’ COVID-19 Hotline: 905-974-9848 or [email protected]

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jasmine Graham
Senior Communications Officer
City of Hamilton
905-973-2829
[email protected]

Michelle Shantz
Communications and Media Advisor
Office of Mayor Fred Eisenberger
905-546-4225
[email protected]