In recent weeks, COVID-19 has produced some type of lifestyle change for all of us, whether it be not being able to attend classes, being advised to work from home, or even both. However, not everyone is lucky enough to be exempt from their in-person duties. A few people still use NJ Transit to commute for various obligations, but many have realized the potential danger of exposing themselves to crowds of people amid this coronavirus crisis. Due to this, NJ Transit has inevitably faced many economic blows.
Although many people still continue with their commutes, NJ Transit has reportedly lost about 90% of its ridership due to government regulations on businesses and many employees being told to work from home. Additionally, they have issued refunds for those who purchased a monthly pass but are no longer using it. This decrease in income has prompted NJ Transit to request a $1.25 billion federal bailout from Congress. Without this financial support, NJ Transit questions how it will be able to survive amid this global pandemic.
After losing many customers, NJ Transit has managed to adjust their train schedules. Almost all weekday trains have adopted a weekend schedule. However, it’s important to note that the bus and Hudson-Bergen Light Rail will continue on weekday schedules. But even with reduced transit traffic, many customers are still exposing themselves to COVID-19 by using the transit system. Without proper sanitation, NJ Transit is a hub for this virus to linger and spread. Therefore, people have had valid concerns regarding their health and safety when utilizing NJ Transit.
Since NJ Transit is an essential agency, they feel obligated to provide consistent services to their customers. This doesn’t mean, however, that they aren’t taking proper precautions to protect those who are continuing to travel. Their main ammunition to fight this virus is extreme sanitation. Their central focus is to clean high-touch areas including seating areas, restrooms, doors, benches, trash cans, elevators, escalators, handrails, and ticket machines. Depending on the item and the terminal, sanitation frequency ranges from every shift to every 24 hours. NJ Transit also promises that if a person who used their service is found to be infected, extra precautions will be taken to clean the vehicles they used.
Like other agencies, NJ Transit recommends that its customers follow the CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes staying home when you are sick, covering your mouth when you cough, frequently washing your hands with soap and water, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. The CDC has also recommended practicing social distancing with people in your community and avoiding contact with those who have tested positive for coronavirus.
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