GRTC service expected to be slow Friday because of driver testing

GRTC service May 1 could be significantly delayed or canceled in spots as some drivers take paid leave to be tested for COVID-19, following the announcement that one driver already has tested positive, company officials said Thursday.

Then while staffers await test results, there could be additional service delays this weekend. GRTC officials are encouraging riders to make alternative arrangements for any essential trips through the weekend.

Officials are planning to ensure that there is at least one bus in service on all routes Friday, but that means many routes will have hourly service. Officials will prioritize resources to high-ridership routes.

Some fixed-route service may need to be canceled entirely, though, if GRTC does not have enough operations staff members on duty to put at least minimal service on most routes, officials said.

If that happens, GRTC will put on-demand service in place for urgent and essential trips to medical facilities that cannot be met due to canceled transit services.

All critical health care trips on GRTC CARE service will be met, officials said, and all service impacts will be posted on GRTC’s website and communicated through customer service at 358-4782.