Three bus operators, one mechanic with Capital Metro test positive for COVID-19

The names and current medical conditions of the employees are not being released but Capital Metro has provided information about which routes and dates the bus operators worked so customers can proactively monitor their health.

AUSTIN, Texas - Capital Metro says that four of its staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. Officials say three are bus operators and the fourth person is a mechanic.

The first bus operator that confirmed a positive test last worked on March 25. They drove Route 300 on the following days: March 19, March 23, March 24 and 25.

The second bus operator’s last day on the job was March 26 and they drove Route 383 on March 21 and Route 937 on March 23 through March 26.

The third bus operator's last day driving was March 26. The bus operator drove Route 985 on March 19; Route 383 on March 22 and 23; Route 325 On March 24 and 25 and Route 335 on March 26.

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Anyone who has ridden the routes driven by these operators in the last 14 days should monitor themselves and contact their health care provider if they develop any symptoms.

The mechanic works in the bus maintenance area and does not interact with the public. Their last appearance at work was March 16.

Officials say the buses driven by the operators have been temporarily removed from service for additional sanitation.

CapMetro already had started enhanced cleaning measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 by applying a disinfectant to common hand contact areas, including poles, handrails, armrests, door handles and stop request buttons throughout the day.

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Rear-door boarding was also implemented beginning March 18 to encourage social distancing and all fares have been suspended for the entire month of April to keep customers and operators safe.

CapMetro would like to remind the public to use its service only for necessary trips and that transit should be reserved for those performing essential work or customers going to essential services like the grocery store or pharmacies.

If customers experience possible COVID-19 symptoms (fever, sore throat, dry cough), you're asked to contact your personal health care provider and self-isolate to avoid potentially exposing others.

Capital Metro has implemented a program to support team members with households affected by COVID-19. It's a three-week supplemental sick leave program, which is in addition to paid time off already accrued by an employee.

The CapMetro Family Cares program has also been launched to support these employees.

More details from Capital Metro can be found on their website.

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