TransPorte announces new hours, safety precautions amid rise in COVID-19 cases

TransPorte today announced its new hours and safety guidelines resulting from a spike in local COVID-19 cases, according to Manager Beth West.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 23 and continuing until further notice, TransPorte will run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., ending bus service an hour earlier than usual. The transportation system will also temporarily stop weekend service.

"With the recent rise in coronavirus cases throughout the greater La Porte area, we have to take every precaution to ensure the safety of our riders and drivers," West said. "While we hope to resume our regular schedule soon, we will continue with our new hours and safety guidelines until further notice."

In addition to their new operating schedule, West said TransPorte will also be enacting rider and location limits. Beginning Monday, no more than four people will be allowed on a bus at a given time. They will also require that riders have appointments to go into bank lobbies, will restrict grocery store stops to Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and will no longer make house-to-house trips.

West said all riders must have a mask and wear it for the entire duration of their ride. Drivers can provide free face mask to those who need one. West said residents should also plan on purchasing a punch card or paying with exact change to help limit exposure.

With the holidays approaching, West said riders should be aware of the service's holiday hours. Buses will run from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Black Friday, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. TransPorte will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

For questions or to schedule a ride, residents can contact dispatch at 362-6565.