SYV Transit returns to full service and implements COVID-19 safety precautions

By Santa Ynez Valley Star Staff · Tue Mar 17 2020

Staff Report

Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT) continues to protect both its employees and customers from the coronavirus (COVID-19) after returning to full-service. Management staff monitor and update guidelines and procedures set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure residents can travel safely with the service.

In March, SYVT limited its service to a general public Dial-A-Ride (DAR) in response to the state-wide order to stay home issued by Governor Newsom. After certain restrictions were lifted, SYVT returned to full service (including resumption of the fixed-route service) to ensure residents and important essential service providers had convenient and affordable access to travel.

“Public transportation is an essential service because it is often the only way individuals can access supplies and employment in the community,” said Matt van der Linden, the Public Works Director for the City of Solvang. “SYVT is open and safe to ride.”

SYVT COVID-19 safety procedures include:

Blocking off alternating seats on all buses to help passengers stay six feet apart.