MTA Continues Running Regular Service, Despite Plummeting Ridership

The MTA is running regular bus and train service in spite of a significant decrease in ridership due to the Covid-19 outbreak. And it has many transit workers worried for their health and safety.

Officials say maintaining regular service is important so that essential workers and first responders can get to work. And that means for now, the MTA’s 50,000 strong workforce must report for duty. 

Speaking on NY1, MTA Chairman Pat Foye says the agency is taking measures to ensure trains and buses are clean and safe.

“We’re being driven by public health and medical advice in terms of the action we take in respect to our customers and employees,” he said.

Still, some workers tell WNYC there aren’t enough cleaning supplies. And employees with pre-existing conditions are worried about contracting the virus. 

The MTA has confirmed one Long Island Railroad worker has tested positive for COVID-19.