URBANDALE, Iowa—For the continued safety of our riders and drivers, HIRTA will remain FARE FREE through 5/31/2020, and continue to request people only use HIRTA for essential and critical needs. We also request that all riders be mindful of our drivers and other passengers and follow these guidelines:

· Wear a face-covering over your nose and mouth while on the bus

· Sit further away, keeping a safe distance from the driver and other passengers

· Do not touch drivers or other passengers

· If using a mobility device, turn your head away from the driver and don’t talk to them while they are securing your device

HIRTA is committed to running our operations as normal to ensure residents can depend on us as a reliable transportation option in these unreliable times.

HIRTA’s Executive Director, Julia Castillo says “The intention is not to increase ridership, these measures are strictly for the safety of our riders and drivers. HIRTA will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, follow CDC guidelines and make adjustments as needed. Right now, we need everyone to do their part to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, and keep themselves and others, who must use HIRTA’s services , as safe as possible.

(contributed press release, HIRTA)