How many passengers are permitted on a Fredericton Transit bus?
- On June 29, 2020, there will be an increase from 9 passengers to up to 50% of seated passenger capacity. This means that on Fredericton Transit buses, up to 15-20 passengers will be permitted at once depending on the seat configuration of each bus.
- These increases will only continue if passengers comply with the mask use requirement being implemented in Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John.
Do passengers have to wear a mask to board a bus?
- Beginning June 29, 2020 passengers will be required to wear a community face mask when boarding the bus. This is being implemented in Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John.
- Mask exemptions are permitted by the Province of New Brunswick for anyone age 2 and under, and for anyone with a medical condition (such as asthma, lung disease, COPD, breathing difficulties, claustrophobia, or any medical condition causing them to be unable to wear a mask).
Why are passengers required to wear masks?
- The Province of New Brunswick requires use of masks when 2m social distance cannot be maintained between individuals. Maintaining 2m separation by passengers is challenging on transit buses. As we increase the number of passengers permitted per bus the ability for passengers to physically distance becomes even more challenging. Therefore, masks are required as a precautionary measure against Covid-19.
- For the increased capacity measure to continue, masks must be worn by those who are able to wear them. We are confident that passengers will do their part to keep transit running.
Why do the Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John transit systems have the same requirements?
- The three transit systems have been working with each other since the pandemic began. We are proud to be collaborating on the creation of a unified operational plan that allows us to increase capacity and respond to the increase in demand, and to demonstrate how transit systems can work together to adapt to a new normal.
Will Fredericton Transit be providing masks for passengers to use?
- As in other settings, passengers will be responsible for their providing their own community face mask. All cloth facial coverings such as scarves, bandanas, homemade masks and medical masks are acceptable.
What if a passenger doesn’t wear a mask?
- Passenger use of face masks will be randomly monitored by Fredericton Transit.
- Transit’s ability to further increase the number of passengers per bus will depend on passenger compliance with the mask requirement.
- If most passengers refuse to wear masks, transit service levels could be impacted with reduced service levels.
Are transit Operators required to prevent passengers without a mask from boarding the bus?
- No, transit Operators are not required to enforce passenger use of masks. Operators are focused on safely driving the buses and the boarding/disembarking of passengers. Operators do not know who has a medical condition that prevents them from being able to wear a mask (ex. asthma, lung disease, claustrophobia, etc.). The Province of New Brunswick permits mask exemptions for people with medical conditions and children under the age of two.
- If you have questions or concerns regarding passenger use of masks please contact our office at 460-2200 or transit@fredericton.ca.
- Communications messages will advise the public masks are required on public transit as of June 29.
Are children required to wear a mask?
- Children under 2 years of age are exempt from having to wear a mask by Province of NB.
Are Operators required to wear a mask?
- Operators are required to wear a mask while not driving when physical distancing of 2m is not possible. Operators are not required to wear a mask while driving as physical distancing and plastic barriers are in place to separate them from passengers.
Where should I sit when boarding the bus?
- To promote social distancing, some seats have been marked with signage indicating “Seat Closed”. When boarding, choose an open seat. Seats marked as “closed” should not be used at this time. Most aisle seats are blocked at this time.
If I am travelling with a small child, may the child sit in a “closed” seat next to me?
- Whenever possible, young children should be in a parent or guardian’s lap. If this is not possible, the child may be seated beside the parent or guardian.
Where to I board and exit the bus?
- Passengers are required to board at the front of the bus and pay fare when boarding.
- When exiting the bus, passengers should use the rear door. Passengers with disabilities may continue to exit through front of the bus when required.
Will Fredericton Transit continue to provide overflow buses if passenger loads exceed 50%?
- Passenger use of buses will continue to be monitored and overflow buses will be available if required.
When will the requirement to wear masks be lifted?
- Transit will follow the lead of the Chief Medical Officer of New Brunswick. At this time, there are no plans to lift the restrictions to require that all passengers wear a mask.