In an effort to reduce driver-to-customer contact due to COVID-19, Greenville's Greenlink is practicing Social Distancing by implementing a "zero-fare" policy.
The policy began Thursday.
Greenlink also says by doing away with the fares for now, let's passengers board the bus using the back door, reserving the front boarding and seating space for those who use a wheelchair and need the assistance of a ramp.
Greenlink has instructed drivers to disinfect their work area, are equipped with hand sanitizer and will be using electrostatic spray to clean buses when the product arrives.
Official News Release below:
COVID-19 Updates
Many have asked if COVID-19 has disrupted Greenlink’s service. As of today, [3/19/20] Greenlink is continuing normal service schedules.
To maintain a clean working environment for both drivers and customers, Greenlink has implemented the following disinfection measures:
Drivers have been instructed to disinfect their work area, including the farebox and other high-touch areas, every two hours
Drivers are also equipped with hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer dispensers have been installed on each bus for public use
Every bus is disinfected with Alpet D2 – which sanitizes surfaces in just 10 seconds - at 12:30 p.m. and after 7:30 p.m.
Staff has ordered an electrostatic spray, which will be used to disinfect the vehicles when the product arrives
Additionally, beginning March 19, Greenlink will operate with a “zero fare” policy, meaning customers will not be required to pay a fare to ride the bus.
The intent is to minimize contact between drivers and customers.
Eliminating fares also enables customers to get on and off the bus using the rear door, which enhances social distancing practices.
Customers in wheelchairs, or those with mobility needs, will be allowed to board at the front door so they can use the bus ramp and access the disability seating at the front of the bus.
The ADA seating area, which is located closest to the driver, will be reserved for wheelchair passengers only to increase the distance between customers and drivers.
