Coronavirus: Lynx questions and answers

What follows are questions that David Thomas Moran, co-chair of CFL4Transit (Central Floridians for Public Transit), sent to the leadership at the Lynx public bus system. Check out the answers he received.

1.   How can the community-at-large and CFL4Transit best support LYNX and public transit right now and in the coming months? What are the biggest needs?

The best way to help is by sharing the information we are pushing.

·       www.golynx.com/coronavirusinfo

 

·       www.facebook.com/golynx

·       www.twitter.com/lynxbusorlando

Along with this we need people to understand that if you are sick, you do not ride. We are encouraging essential trips only.

2.   How is LYNX coordinating with public health officials to support the safety and well-being of transit riders and transit operators during the  COVID-19 outbreak?

LYNX is following all recommendations set forth by the CDC and local health departments to continue safely moving passengers throughout Central Florida. This includes rear door entry unless you need the lift, no fares, staggered seating and limiting the number of passengers per bus. We are encouraging the use of face masks/coverings when riding but, this is only an encouragement and not mandatory. We cannot express this enough, if a customer is sick or travel isn't essential, we are requesting those customers to please stay home and not ride LYNX.

3.   How is LYNX addressing concerns that service reductions may cause crowding on buses when social distancing is needed?

We are requiring rear door entry unless you need the lift; no fares; staggered seating and limiting the number of passengers per bus. We are encouraging the use of face masks/coverings when riding but, this is only an encouragement and not mandatory. We cannot express this enough, if a customer is sick or travel isn't essential, we are requesting those customers to please stay home and not ride LYNX.

4.   What data did the LYNX use to decide which routes to cut back on for COVID-19 service reduction?

The goal was to provide access for essential trips which included serving medical and shopping facilities. We looked at how we can best use our resources and staff while safely providing trips to our rider.

5.   How much CARES ACT (federal) funding did LYNX receive and how will it be spent?

The allocation listed in the federal register was approximately $77 million.  We are still working with the FTA on its guidance which is being refined on how the funding can be used.  Ultimately the LYNX Board will make the decision.