TCAT announces reduced bus schedule starting Thursday due to COVID, driver shortages

TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit, Inc.) announced that buses will be operating on a reduced schedule starting on Thursday, May 28, and continuing through at least Sunday, May 1.

The scaled down bus schedule is due to the high number of drivers out on sick leave, some of whom have tested positive for COVID-19, and the overall existing workforce shortage.

TCAT is working to revise schedules with built-in service reductions. The soon-to-be released pre-planned schedules are expected to available on TCAT’s website later on Wednesday and will go into effect on Thursday.

According to TCAT, the revised, pre-planned bus schedules will give riders more advance notice of what to expect each day until full service is restored. The preplanned schedules will also relieve TCAT dispatchers from needing to make last-minutes changes while communicating with drivers.

Riders are urged to check TCAT’s Bus Tracker for the status of their routes and for passenger alerts. Riders are also encouraged to download the Transit app, which includes real-time information. Apps are available for download via TCAT's app page.

TCAT continues to enforce coronavirus pandemic safety guidelines, which includes requiring riders and drivers to wear face coverings to protect against the transmission of COVID-19.

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This article originally appeared on Ithaca Journal: TCAT reduces bus schedule, citing drivers testing positive for COVID