HART COVID UPDATE: Two Bus Operators Among the Latest Employees to Test Positive

HART has received confirmation that two additional bus operators and a non-public facing employee have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The bus operator's last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 6 (56th St) - July 14, 2020

One of the operators did not work in the last 14 days.

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 49 – including 21 bus operators, 5 van operators, 2 streetcar motorperson, and 21 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID UPDATE: A Streetcar Motorperson and Bus Operator Among the Latest Cases

HART has received confirmation that a bus operator and a streetcar motorperson are among the latest employees to test positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 The bus operators' last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 12 (22nd Street) – July 17, 2020
• Route 16 (Waters Ave) – July 18, 2020
• Route 39 (Bush Blvd) – July 18, 2020

The streetcar motorperson last worked June 21, 2020. In an abundance of caution and in consultation with the Hillsborough County Department of Heath customers who came in contact with the Operator will be contacted. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 46 – including 19 bus operators, 5 van operators, 2 streetcar motorpersons, and 20 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID UPDATE: Bus and Van Operators are Among the Latest to Test Positive for Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that additional bus and van operators have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 The bus operators' last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 7 (West Tampa) – July 8, 2020
• Route 8 (Progress Village/ Brandon) – July 8, 2020
• Route 42 (University Are Connector) – July 8, 2020
• Route 45 (Yukon/Westshore) – July 8, 2020
• Route 36 (Dale Mabry/ Hines Ave) – July 9, 2020
• Route 12 (22nd Street) - July 9, 2020
• Route 400 (Nebraska Ave) – July 9, 2020
• Route 15 (Columbus Dr) - July 10, 2020
• Route 19 (South Tampa) – July 10, 2020
• Route 33 (Fletcher Ave) – July 10, 2020
• Route 42 (University Are Connector) – July 14, 2020
• Route 45 (Yukon/Westshore) – July 14, 2020
• Route 16 (Waters Ave) – July 14, 2020
• Route 39 (Bush Blvd) – July 14, 2020
• Route 7 (West Tampa) – July 15, 2020
• Route 400 (Nebraska Ave) – July 15, 2020
• Route 8 (Progress Village/ Brandon) – July 15, 2020
• Route 6 (56th St) - July 16, 2020
• Route 1 (Florida Ave) – July 16, 2020
• Route 1 (Florida Ave) – July 17, 2020

The van operator last worked Friday July 17, 2020. In an abundance of caution and in consultation with the Hillsborough County Department of Heath customers who came in contact with the Operator will be contacted. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 40 – including 18 bus operators, 5 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 16 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID UPDATE: A Bus Operator is Among the Latest to Test Positive for Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that an additional bus operator has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 The bus operator's last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 275 (North Tampa) - July 2, 2020 
• Route 16 (Waters Ave) – July 3, 2020 
• Route 39 (Bush Blvd) – July 3, 2020 
• Route 6 (56th St) - July 6, 2020

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 32 – including 15 bus operators, 4 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 12 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID UPDATE: Bus, Van Operator, Among the Latest to Test Positive for Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that two additional operators (1 bus operator; 1 van operator) and two non-public facing employees have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 The bus operator's last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 5 (40th St) – July 5, 2020
• Route 12 (22nd St.) – July 5, 2020
• Route 15 (Columbus Dr.) – July 9, 2020
• Route 38 (Mango) – July 10, 2020

The van operator last worked Wednesday July 8, 2020. In an abundance of caution and in consultation with the Hillsborough County Department of Heath customers who came in contact with the Operator will be contacted. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 31 – including 14 bus operators, 4 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 12 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID UPDATE: Van Operator Among Latest to Test Positive for the Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that a van operator and a non-public facing employee have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The van operator last worked on July 8, 2020. In an abundance of caution and in consultation with the Hillsborough County Department of Heath, customers who came in contact with the operator will be contacted.

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 27 – including 13 bus operators, 3 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 10 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: Two Operators Among the Latest to Test Positive for the Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that two bus operators and a non-public facing employee have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 Both bus operators' last days and routes worked are the following:

• Routes 19 (South Tampa), Route 33 (Fletcher Ave) and Route 36 (Dale Mabry) – July 8, 2020 
• Route 6 (56th Street) - July 7, 2020 
• Route 6 (56th Street) - July 6, 2020

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 25 – including 13 bus operators, 2 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 9 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: Five Additional Operators have Tested Positive for the Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that five additional operators (four bus operators; 1 van operator) have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 The bus operators' last days and routes worked are the following:

• Route 5 (40th St) – July 7, 2020
• Route 1 (Florida Ave) – July 5, 2020
• Route 35 (Town and Country) and Route 6 (56th St) – July 4, 2020
• Route 42 (University Are Connector) and Route 45 (Yukon/Westshore) – July 3, 2020
• Route 7 (West Tampa) and Route 8 (Progress Village/ Brandon) – July 2, 2020
• Route 6 (56th Street), Route 36 (Dale Mabry/ Hines Ave) and Route 400 (Nebraska Ave) - July 1, 2020
• Route 34 (Hillsborough Ave), Route 42 (University Area Connector) and Route 45 (Yukon/Westshore) - June 30, 2020
• Routes 400 (Nebraska Ave /Fletcher Ave) - June 29, 2020
• Routes 19 (South Tampa) and Route 33 (Fletcher Ave) – June 28, 2020
• Route 36 (Dale Mabry/ Hines Ave) and Routes 400 (Nebraska Ave) – June 27, 2020
• Route 6 (56th Street), Route 19 (South Tampa) and Route 33 (Fletcher Ave) - June 26, 2020
• Route 30 (Kennedy Blvd) – June 26, 2020
• Route 34 (Hillsborough Ave) - June 24, 2020

The van operator last worked Tuesday, July 7, 2020. In an abundance of caution and in consultation with the Hillsborough County Department of Heath customers who came in contact with the Operator will be contacted. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 22 – including 11 bus operators, 2 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 8 other employees.

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: Two Bus Operators Among Latest COVID Cases

HART has received confirmation that two additional bus operators have tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The last days/routes worked by the first bus operator include:

• Route 32 (Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd) and Route 37 (Brandon/Netpark) – June 23, 2020
• Route 32 (Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd) and Route 37 (Brandon/Netpark) – June 24, 2020

The last days/routes worked by the second bus operator include:

• Routes 32 (Dr. MLK Blvd) and 37 (Brandon/Netpark) - June 13, 2020

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 17 – including 7 bus operators, 1 van operators, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 8 other employees. The Authority has a workforce of more than 800, and will continue to track positive test results among its employees. 

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: One Streetcar Motorman has Tested Positive for the Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that one streetcar motorman has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). The streetcar motorperson last worked June 16-17. 

This brings the total number of cases of HART employees testing positive for the coronavirus to 15 – including 5 bus operators, 1 van operator, 1 streetcar motorperson, and 8 other employees.

The Authority has a workforce of more than 800, and will continue to track positive test results among its employees. All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM) and Hillsborough County Executive Order (effective Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at 5:00 PM), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART is providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social distancing. 

HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is testing ALL employees for COVID-19.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• The bus destination signs on the outside of all HART buses display “Masks Required” and “Essential Trips Only.”
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders and that masks are required.
• The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.

HART COVID-19 UPDATE: An Eleventh HART Employee has Tested Positive for Coronavirus

HART has received confirmation that one of our teammates, a bus operator, has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). This is the eleventh confirmed case of a HART employee testing positive for the coronavirus. The Authority has a workforce of more than 800, and will continue to track positive test results among its employees.

The bus operator last worked June 17, 2020. The days prior to that time, the operator drove the following routes:

• Route 14 (Armenia/Howard) - June 13, 2020
• Routes 12 (22nd Street) - June 14, 2020
• Routes 1 (Florida Avenue) - June 17, 2020

All individuals are entitled to medical and health privacies and HART maintains the security of employees’ confidentiality. We respectfully ask media to honor all HART employees’ privacy.

For the safety of everyone on board, following the City of Tampa Executive Order 2020-27 (effective Friday, June 19, 2020 at 5:00 pm), riders are required to wear a cloth face covering over their mouth and nose when in public and on transit, as recommended by the CDC. HART will be providing face coverings to customers at transit centers, while supplies last. Face coverings can also be made from household items, including handkerchiefs, bandanas, or scarves. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms, and is not a substitute for social
distancing. 


HART is committed to the safety of all our employees and riders. In accordance with CDC guidelines as well as local and state health departments, HART has taken the following steps to help reduce the spread of COVID-19:

Staff using disinfection fogger

• HART continues to disinfect the fleet, transit centers, amenities and work areas - daily.
• HART is communicating with all employees and customers to practice CDC recommended good hygiene and social distancing.
• HART is providing gloves, hand sanitizer, and face masks to frontline employees. Safety shields on fixed route vehicles also provide a barrier to reduce contact.
• HART is running a temporary reduction of hours for transit service for essential trips. HART is following a modified-Sunday schedule. HART is asking customers to limit travel to essential trips only.
• Buses have been added on certain high-ridership routes daily to prevent overcrowding while staggered seating is recommended. Additional plug buses hold at certain key locations for immediate action to supplement other routes, so that riders are not left stranded.
• Audio announcements and on-board seat signage have been installed to encourage staggered seating among riders. The first row of seats nearest to the front door is closed off to maintain additional distance between riders and the operator (but is still available for customer with disabilities that have mobility devices). HART has seen reduced ridership which provides the benefit of creating more space.
• HART operators are continually notified to contact the HART Operations Control Center (OCC) immediately to report if their transit vehicle is too crowded or other potential COVID-19 safety concerns. Responses may involve dispatching appropriate personnel, contacting emergency services, sending a swap vehicle, or sending a plug bus along the route.
• HART is offering alternative work schedules if the job function allows the employee to do the following: flexible/staggered work schedules, reduced work schedules and remote working.

While we remain committed to serving those who serve us, HART asks customers and employees to exercise personal responsibility and follow the CDC recommended guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation.