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HRT to end ferry service early due to coronavirus pandemic

Posted at 6:50 PM, Mar 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-23 18:50:49-04

NORFOLK, Va. – Elizabeth River Ferry will end its daily and weekend service days at 9 p.m. starting Wednesday in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In addition, Hampton Roads Transit also announced Monday that it will accelerate the cleaning of its vehicles, transit centers and administrative offices using disinfecting agents delivered with an electrostatic misting device.

The device sprays a positively charged mist that covers every surface it touches, including very small, hard-to-reach areas. The positive charge helps the mist to cling to all surfaces. When coupled with wiping down of hard surfaced, which HRT is already doing, the electrostatic mist is considered an especially effective technique for cleaning surfaces.

While every effort is being made to secure the safety of the traveling public, William Harrell, president and CEO of HRT, strongly encouraged all residents and customers to reconsider unnecessary travel.

“It is critically important that all people avoid unnecessary travel during this crisis,” Harrell said. “With proper social distancing and thorough hand washing, we can do our part to help end this terrible pandemic.”

HRT has tied up the front folding seats of its buses and some seats in light rail trains to create more distance between customers and bus operators. HRT also is asking its bus customers to exit from the rear doors of the buses when they reach their destination.

Related: Public transportation companies take precautions during coronavirus outbreak

All HRT services are operating on normal service levels at this time, however some service interruptions may arise under these unusual circumstances. This situation is fluid and evolving.

HRT will make further service adjustments in the future as conditions dictate. They will be announced on social media, news releases and Customer Alerts.

For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.

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