Public Transit & COVID-19
Public transportation systems around the country (and world) continue to take extraordinary measures to keep riders and public transit workers safe. As our understanding of COVID-19 continues to evolve and the latest research documents there is no direct link between using public transit and contracting the coronavirus. To learn more about research conducted, click here.
COVID-19 has changed how the world operates, here is what Columbia Area Transit is doing to keep the Gorge safe and accessible.
What to Know When Riding
Wear a face mask. All riders and drivers are required to wear a face mask that covers the mouth and nose on the bus and when gathered at a bus stop. Scarfs, bandannas, and fabric masks are all okay. An individual under the age of 2 years old is not required to wear a face mask.
A reasonable accommodation request can be made by individuals who have a medical condition that makes it hard to breathe or a disability that prevents the individual from wearing a face mask by calling (541)386-4202 or emailing Amy.Schlappi@catransit.org.
Observe physical distance between yourself and others. Sit at least 3 feet away from other riders and stay a least 6 feet from the driver. Seats that are unavailable are marked.
Tell the driver if you need assistance. CAT drivers will provide assistance to riders in need to get on or off the vehicle. Drivers will wear single use gloves in addition to a mask when assisting riders.
Be responsible for your own safety. CAT buses are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected each night. Common places for people to touch (i.e. handrails, seat belts, etc.) are wiped down and disinfected after each trip, but it is impossible to catch everything. Take whatever precautions are necessary for you to feel safe. Hand sanitizer is available on all buses for rider use.
Safety measures being taken
Hand sanitizer is available on each bus. Automatic hand sanitizer stations have been mounted in each vehicle.
Daily cleaning procedures have been enhanced. All vehicles are thoroughly cleaned before and after each shift and high- touch areas are wiped down throughout the day.
Vehicle capacity has been reduced. Seats that are unavailable have been marked off in order to ensure proper distance between passengers is maintained. All in service vehicles are equipped with Plexiglas shields to protect the drivers.
Clear signage and communication relating to COVID-19 are posted. All OHA required information/guidelines are visible is buses and at bus stops in English and Spanish.
Follow CDC and Oregon Health Authority Guidance
Wash your hands. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can also sing Happy Birthday to yourself twice. This is especially important after going to the bathroom, before and after eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when you aren’t able to wash your hands.
Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing. Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, use your elbow or shoulders and away from others.
Keep your distance. Stay 6 feet from others, even if you are wearing a face covering.
Stay home when sick. If you are feeling ill please stay home until you are feeling better.
Shared Responsibility for Safety
It is up to every individual, both CAT employee and rider, to do their part to help protect the health and safety of our community. The health of our team is our number one priority. Our expectation is that each one of us will follow protocols to help keep each other healthy.
