Masks mandatory beginning Monday on all West Kootenay Transit buses
By Nelson Daily Staff
Riders of West Kootenay Transit busses must be prepared to wear a mask when stepping on at a stop beginning Monday, August 24th.
That’s when BC Transit, including West Kootenay Transit, will be proceeding with mandatory use of face coverings on buses in BC Transit communities across the province.
In a media release, BC Transit said accommodations will be permitted for children under the age of five years and those that cannot wear a face covering for health reasons as well customers will be expected to supply their own face covering for their transit journey.
“We recognize the advice from health professionals, including Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, has been to wear face coverings when physical distancing is not possible including on transit vehicles. Customers have indicated making the use of face coverings mandatory will create a more comfortable environment,” the BC Transit release said.
“While face coverings will be mandatory, the policy will be implemented as an educational step without enforcement. The educational position is aligned with TransLink and other transit agencies in Canada. “
BC Transit said it is working hard to ensure customers are aware of our new policy through promotion and signage and will continue to work with our local government partners to make transit a comfortable environment for staff and customers.
The Together We Ride campaign continues across the province, promoting the need to work together to make the transit journey comfortable for customers. Details are available here: bctransit.com/together-we-ride
For more details about the mandatory mask policy and BC Transit’s response to COVID-19, please visit bctransit.com or call your local transit office.
West Kootenay Transit serves communities throughout the region, including Nelson, Trail and Castlegar and surrounding communities.
