If you plan on taking the bus in Prince George you’ll need to bring a mask with you.
BC Transit announced today (Thursday) it’s mandating the use of face coverings starting August 24th.
Spokesperson Jonathan Dyck spoke with MyPGNow.com on the change.
“It’s something that we had been hearing from customers in communities across the province and this will help make them feel more comfortable taking transit, this is something our riders have been asking for.”
He added the company is following the lead of other transit providers across the country.
“We have seen other transit agencies implement this exact model and they have had success with it by increasing the use of face coverings.”
“It’s a policy that Dr. Henry has mentioned in her briefings that it’s something that transit and TransLink should look at and I think this is something that’s important to support our riders that are currently taking the bus.”
?? Dear riders, you’ve asked – and we’re listening ? Together we ride, and this means helping our community #staysafe ?? On August 24, wearing face coverings on board will become mandatory in #BC ?️ Learn more about how we made this #safety decision https://t.co/eEAZrmN6Tz pic.twitter.com/h6BMh2V5cc
— BC Transit (@BCTransit) August 6, 2020
However, accommodations will be permitted for children under the age of 5 and those that cannot wear a face covering for health reasons.
While face coverings will be mandatory, the policy will be implemented as an educational step without enforcement.
“Transit is an important service for many British Columbians. BC Transit’s decision to make masks mandatory on their vehicles will help make transit safer for fellow passengers. Find one that’s comfortable, and make time to get used to wearing them and taking them on and off as needed. Those of us who are able should be using masks on transit all the time. I do and I expect others to as well,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, in a news release.
Work will be done in the coming weeks to make transit users aware of the change.