3 additional CapMetro bus drivers test positive for COVID-19; riders now required to wear face coverings

More CapMetro bus operators test positive for COVID-19

One CapMetro employee has already died from the virus.

AUSTIN, Texas - Three additional CapMetro bus drivers have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total of positive cases reported to eight. One driver last worked on April 2, one on April 9, and one on March 30, according to CapMetro.

CapMetro says they have implemented several measures to ensure social distancing on their vehicles, including a yellow chain as a physical barrier between drivers and riders, free fares and rear-door only boarding.

Stickers will be displayed on CapMetro vehicles reminding riders about the new face-covering requirement. (CapMetro)

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Due to new Austin-Travis County orders requiring everyone to wear masks, including on public transit, all riders will be required to wear a face-covering of some sort that covers the nose and mouth. CapMetro says the following are acceptable:

Cloth masks
Handkerchiefs
Bandanas
Scarves
Shirts pulled over mouth and nose

Drivers will remind riders not wearing a face covering of the new requirement and drivers have been instructed not to leave a stop if a rider refuses to cover their face, says CapMetro. The new order does not replace the need for maintaining physical distance.

CapMetro also reported that MetroAccess has delivered over 67,000 meals through the H-E-B partnership and almost 28,000 through the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" program partnership.

Cleaning crews sanitize and clean trash cans and benches at a CapMetro stop. (CapMetro)

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