News
GRTC Update February 5, 2021
February 05, 2021
GRTC News
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New Federal Order requires face masks to ride!
February 5, 2021
Please visit our website for the most recent COVID-19 information.
Recent Service Updates: Minor service updates took effect on Sunday, January 31, with schedule changes on Routes 4A, 4B, 50, 77, and 78. You can view all current timetables online now.
New Federal Mask Order: Effective February 1, 2021, face masks are required on any “public conveyance” (i.e., public transportation) for all passengers older than two years. Virginia has had a mask mandate since May 29, 2020, but the new federal order specifies which face masks are approved and which are non-compliant.
The following are attributes of masks needed to fulfill the requirements of the Order. CDC will update this guidance as needed.
- A properly worn mask completely covers the nose and mouth.
- Cloth masks should be made with two or more layers of a breathable fabric that is tightly woven (i.e., fabrics that do not let light pass through when held up to a light source).
- Mask should be secured to the head with ties, ear loops, or elastic bands that go behind the head. If gaiters are worn, they should have two layers of fabric or be folded to make two layers.
- Mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.
- Mask should be a solid piece of material without slits, exhalation valves, or punctures.
The following attributes are additionally acceptable as long as masks meet the requirements above.
- Masks can be either manufactured or homemade.
- Masks can be reusable or disposable.
- Masks can have inner filter pockets.
- Clear masks or cloth masks with a clear plastic panel may be used to facilitate communication with people who are hearing impaired or others who need to see a speaker’s mouth to understand speech.
- Medical masks and N-95 respirators fulfill the requirements of the Order.
The following do not fulfill the requirements of the Order.
- Masks worn in a way that does not cover both the mouth and nose
- Face shields or goggles (face shields or goggles may be worn to supplement a mask that meets above required attributes)
- Scarves, ski masks, balaclavas, or bandannas
- Shirt or sweater collars (e.g., turtleneck collars) pulled up over the mouth and nose.
- Masks made from loosely woven fabric or that are knitted, i.e., fabrics that let light pass through
- Masks made from materials that are hard to breathe through (such as vinyl, plastic or leather)
- Masks containing slits, exhalation valves, or punctures
- Masks that do not fit properly (large gaps, too loose or too tight)
Learn more from the CDC about this Order.
Black History Month: With their contributions on the front lines and their roles elevated in public awareness, the importance of essential workers has never been more evident than during the ongoing pandemic. GRTC’s Black History Month honorees this year highlight the contributions of essential workers, past and present, in education, healthcare, public service, and public transportation. Their admirable work ensured that students received an education, provided on-going treatment of health concerns, continued operation of critical public services, and transported people to their jobs. As a testament to their work still relevant today, please join us in honoring Rosa D. Bowser, Dr. Robert Walter “Whirlwind” Johnson, Elvin Russell Cosby, and Jennie Bullock.
It’s Still Winter: GRTC may operate Snow Routes during inclement Winter weather, such as we did last Sunday (January 31). Be sure to check our website, local TV station closings alerts, our app, and our social media for updates during an active weather day. Only bus stops with a blue snowflake blade are served on snow routes.
A snowy Sunday morning, January 31, 2021.
We Are Hiring Bus Operators: It’s A New Year – Level Up with a New Career! GRTC is now hiring Bus Operators. GRTC offers a Strong Benefits Package and Overtime Opportunities. Visit ridegrtc.com and apply today!
You are welcome to connect with GRTC if you have questions.
GRTC’s office is closed to the public, and Lost and Found is by appointment only.