Buses in Alameda County were able to double their capacity starting Monday, with AC Transit getting rid of the 6-foot distancing rule that has been in place since last March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The 6-foot rule will be replaced the 3-foot rule, effectively doubling the capacity allowed on most of its buses.
In a statement, AC Transit said it hopes this change will reduce the number of what they call “pass ups,” situations in which someone is not allowed on a bus due to the capacity restrictions despite open seats.
Passenger Jan Robitscher said she has relied on AC Transit to get around during the pandemic.
“I have low vision, so I can’t drive,” she said. “I need alternate ways of getting around.”
She took the bus Monday morning to run some errands and said she noticed a few more people than normal, but the buses were nowhere near full.
“Not so much yet, but it will be after the 15th, I’m sure,” Robitscher added.
Inside, all the buses have been outfitted with plexiglass shields for the drivers.
AC Transit said it has also redesigned the ventilation process in the buses for optimal airflow, but Robitscher said she will still be a bit hesitant about walking onto a crowded bus.
“I just hope that everybody is vaccinated,” she said.
Masks, even after June 15th, are still required.