COVID Update: Federal Mask Mandate
Effective April 19, 2022
The federal mask mandate has been rescinded for public transportation. Masks are now optional for riders and drivers.
Therefore, masks are NOT required and are optional for all Yamhill County Transit drivers and riders when at bus stops, at the transit center, and while riding the bus.
COVID Update: Federal Mask Mandate
Effective March 11, 2022
The Federal mask mandate has just been extended until April 18, 2022. The federal mask requirement throughout the transportation systems seeks to minimize the spread of Covid-19 on public transportation.
Therefore, masks are required for all riders when at bus stops, at the transit center, and while riding the buses.
COVID Update: Federal Mask Mandate
Effective December 3, 2021
The Federal mask mandate has just been extended until mid-March, 2022. The federal mask requirement throughout the transportation systems seeks to minimize the spread of Covid-19 on public transportation.
Therefore, masks are required for all riders when at bus stops, at the transit center, and while riding the buses.
COVID-19 & Service Update
Route Reinstatement & Holiday Schedule
Effective November 15, 2021
Yamhill County Oregon – Yamhill County Transit (YCT) is pleased to announce that we will be reinstating service for the Newberg routes 5 & 7 starting Monday, 11/15/21. That brings us back to full service.
During the holiday months ahead, we will be running full service except on:
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Day
We do not offer transit services on those holidays, nor Sundays.
COVID-19 Reminders
As we continue our Covid safety processes, we offer a reminder that:
- YCT continues to be fare-free until further notice.
- Masks are required for all riders when at bus stops, at the transit center, and while riding the buses.
Please watch for updates on Ycbus.org and the Rider Facebook page YCbus Info.
Please use the links below to find accurate information and do you part to help stop the spread of this coronavirus:
Twitter
@OHAOregon
@CDCgov
Facebook
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Web
Oregon Health Authority
Yamhill County Public Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Please remember to do your part:
Follow the Oregon Health Authority and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face-covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
COVID-19 & Service Update
Effective September 8, 2021
Yamhill County Transit (YCT) has been operating all services, commuter, local fixed routes, and demand response services since September 2020. The COVID-19 Pandemic is taking its toll on YCT staffing resources. First Transit is doing its best to get the word out to recruit new drivers and key staff. They are reaching far and wide with ads on numerous online platforms, classified ads, and attending community events, and offering a $2000 hiring bonus. Yet, staffing levels are down over 35% and existing drivers are working overtime to keep the buses on the road. Ridership is remaining steady at about 65% of normal.
Recently, COVID-19 has hit the transit agency particularly hard with one death and additional staff out sick with COVID or under quarantine. Therefore, we have no choice but to scale back services according to the Yamhill County Transit Contagious Virus Response Plan.
YCT uses the following indicators when making the decision regarding which services to suspend or reduce:
- Ridership
- Employee Attendance
- Asset Availability
Service levels are adjusted as necessary following this progression:
- Reduce routes starting with the lowest-performing routes.
- Reduce service based on ridership and staff availability.
- Maintain local services to grocery and medical as long as possible.
- Maintain demand response services (Dial-A-Ride, ADA Paratransit) as long as possible.
- Shut down the system.
The Yamhill County Transit team meets weekly to assess the current situation and to review data. All transit vehicles in service are being cleaned frequently with disinfectant throughout the day and every evening in preparation for the next day. Bus shelters and the Transit Center are cleaned frequently to prevent the spread of the virus.
The service adjustment in response to the staffing shortages due to COVID-19 are effective starting today, Wednesday, September 8, 2021 and will remain in effect until further notice.
September 8, 2021 Service Adjustments:
- Temporarily discontinue Newberg local fixed routes 5 and 7. Demand response services will be available to cover the demand so no one will be left without a way to get to the doctor, work, or grocery store.
- YCT continues to be fare-free until further notice.
- Masks are required for all riders when at bus stops, the transit center, and while riding the buses.
Please remember to adhere to social distancing as much as possible when riding the bus. YCT dispatchers when scheduling rides for demand response services may ask questions to ensure customers are not traveling with symptoms.
Please watch for updates on Ycbus.org and the Rider Facebook page YCbus Info.
Please use the links below to find accurate information and do you part to help stop the spread of this coronavirus:
Twitter
@OHAOregon
@CDCgov
Facebook
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Web
Oregon Health Authority
Yamhill County Public Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Please remember to do your part:
Follow the Oregon Health Authority and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face-covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
COVID Update: Federal Mask Mandate
Effective August 17, 2021
Welcome Back!
Effective July 1, 2021
We’re no longer limiting how many riders are allowed on buses. No seats are closed and social distancing is no longer required. This comes after Oregon lifted social distancing requirements on transit on 6/30/21 with the state approaching a 70% vaccination rate.
Masks are still required until September 13th, as directed by the FTA/TSA.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 & Service Update
Effective January 11, 2021
Yamhill County Oregon – Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots, and Tillamook County Transit District.
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as needed. Ridership is slowly increasing and is currently at approximately 50% of normal. We are reinstating the Newberg Routes 5&7 starting January 11, 2021. At that time, all route service will be returned to the previous status.
We are continuing the Fare Free policy, all local fixed and commuter routes, Dial-A-Ride, and ADA Paratransit services will be fareless until further notice.
Yamhill County Transit continues to require all riders to wear a face covering, such as a mask or a bandana. “Face-covering” means a cloth, polypropylene, paper, or other face-covering that covers the nose and the mouth and that rests snugly above the nose, below the mouth, and on the sides of the face.
As of 10/19/20 face shields are not recommended as a substitute for face coverings except in very limited situations. Statewide Mask, Face Covering, Face Shield Guidance
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank all essential workers and those working on the front lines. We are so appreciative of the First Transit managers, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors, and maintenance staff who are keeping the buses on the road every day.
Your Safety is Important to us.
Transit Drivers are wearing face masks and to limit exposure most buses are equipped with a protective barrier between the driver and the passenger. Masks are available to riders that do not have access to face coverings. Hand sanitizer is available on the buses for riders.
YCT is meeting the Governor’s guidance to clean every four hours and wipe all frequently touched surfaces on the buses. We also disinfect and fog the buses each night.
The buses have visual clues, markings, and signs to remind riders:
- of the maximum capacity of buses
- to keep at least three (3) feet of physical distance from other passengers
- to keep six (6) feet of physical distance from the driver.
Please remember to do your part:
Follow the Oregon Health Authority and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face-covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Effective November 12, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon – Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots, and Tillamook County Transit District.
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as needed. Ridership is slowly increasing and is currently at approximately 50% of normal.
We are continuing the Fare Free policy, all local fixed and commuter routes, Dial-A-Ride, and ADA Paratransit services will be fareless until further notice. The temporary discontinuation of Routes 5 & 7 also remain in effect until further notice.
Yamhill County Transit continues to require all riders to wear a face covering, such as a mask or a bandana. “Face-covering” means a cloth, polypropylene, paper, or other face-covering that covers the nose and the mouth and that rests snugly above the nose, below the mouth, and on the sides of the face.
As of 10/19/20 face shields are not recommended as a substitute for face coverings except in very limited situations. Statewide Mask, Face Covering, Face Shield Guidance
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank all essential workers and those working on the front lines. We are so appreciative of the First Transit managers, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors, and maintenance staff who are keeping the buses on the road every day.
Your Safety is Important to us.
Transit Drivers are wearing face masks and to limit exposure most buses are equipped with a protective barrier between the driver and the passenger. Masks are available to riders that do not have access to face coverings. Hand sanitizer is available on the buses for riders.
YCT is meeting the Governor’s guidance to clean every four hours and wipe all frequently touched surfaces on the buses. We also disinfect and fog the buses each night.
The buses have visual clues, markings, and signs to remind riders:
- of the maximum capacity of buses
- to keep at least three (3) feet of physical distance from other passengers
- to keep six (6) feet of physical distance from the driver.
Please remember to do your part:
Follow the Oregon Health Authority and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face-covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Effective July 24, 2020
Announcement Date: July 22, 2020
Governor Kate Brown Announces New Requirements for Face Coverings and Businesses to Stop Spread of COVID-19
Effective July 24, children five and up to wear face coverings
In light of the continued spread of COVID-19 in Oregon, including a troubling rise in cases of community spread that cannot be traced and contained, Governor Kate Brown today announced new statewide health and safety measures, including new requirements for face coverings and businesses, effective Friday, July 24. Unless the spread of COVID-19 begins to slow, the governor made clear that additional restrictions would be necessary.
Beginning July 24, the following new requirements will apply:
Face Coverings
- Face coverings will be required for all Oregonians ages five and up in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six feet of distance cannot be maintained.
- Face coverings will be required even in cases of physical exertion indoors, and outdoors when six feet of distance cannot be maintained.
Businesses
- The maximum indoor capacity limit is capped at 100 for all venues in Phase II counties and for restaurants and bars in Phase I or II counties.
- Restaurants and bars will be required to stop serving customers at 10:00 p.m. statewide.
Click here to view a recording of the governor’s press conference from Wednesday, July 22.
Click here for a full transcript of the governor’s remarks from Wednesday, July 22.
Updated guidance will be posted to coronavirus.oregon.gov.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Effective June 15, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon- Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots and Tillamook County Transit District.
Yamhill County received noticed that their Phase 1 plan was approved by the Governor on May 13, 2020 and subsequently submitted an application to enter into Phase 2, which was approved on June 4, 2020. For additional information about County operations or facilities please visit the County website at https://www.co.yamhill.or.us/
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as needed. Ridership is slowly increasing and is currently at approximately 50% of normal.
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank all essential workers and those working on the front lines. We are so appreciative of the amazing First Transit managers, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors and maintenance staff who are keeping the buses on the road every day.
YCT continues to require all riders to wear a face covering, such as a mask or bandana.
The City of Newberg routes 5 and 7 are still temporarily discontinued until further notice. Yamhill County Transit continues the fare free policy until further notice. YCT has brought back furloughed employees to assist with back up services and meet the demand in Newberg and McMinnville as ridership increases.
YCT asks the public to review the guidance provided in the link below and follow all the recommendations provided by the Oregon Health Authority regarding Mask and Face Covering Guidance for Business, Transit and Public
Your Safety is Important to us.
Transit Drivers are wearing face masks and to limit exposure most buses are equipped with a protective barrier between the driver and the passenger. Masks are available to riders that do not have access to face coverings.
Hand sanitizer is available on the buses for riders. YCT is meeting the Governor’s guidance to clean every four hours and wipe all frequently touched surfaces on the buses and disinfect the buses each night.
The buses have visual clues, markings, and signs to remind riders:
- of the maximum capacity of buses
- to keep at least three (3) feet of physical distance from other passengers
- to keep six (6) feet of physical distance from the driver.
Please remember to do your part.
Follow the Oregon Health Authority and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
SOUND THE HORN
Supporting Public Transportation Workers
Thursday, June 18 at NOON
Public transit employees continue to work on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we want to continue to thank our #HeroesMovingHeroes.
Join us, Thursday, June 18, and “#SoundTheHorn” to honor and say thank you to all public transportation employees working through the coronavirus outbreak. At NOON 12:00 p.m. on June 18, agencies are asked to simultaneously sound two one-second horn blasts from vehicles in service.
The #SoundTheHorn events on April 17 and May 21 were incredibly successful with nearly 150 public transit systems participating. Join in tomorrow and let’s see if we can top this number. Let’s be proud and loud.
SOUND THE HORN
Supporting Public Transportation Workers
Thursday, May 21 at NOON
Public transit employees continue to work on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we want to continue to thank our #HeroesMovingHeroes.
Join in tomorrow, Thursday, May 21, and “#SoundTheHorn” to honor and say thank you to all public transportation employees working through the coronavirus outbreak. At NOON 12:00 p.m. tomorrow, agencies are asked to simultaneously sound two one-second horn blasts from vehicles in service.
The first #SoundTheHorn event on April 17 was incredibly successful with nearly 150 public transit systems participating. Join in tomorrow and let’s see if we can top this number. Let’s be proud and loud!
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Effective May 15, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon- Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots and Tillamook County Transit District.
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank all essential workers and those working on the front lines. We are so appreciative of the amazing First Transit managers, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors and maintenance staff who are keeping the buses on the road every day.
31 Counties were approved to begin reopening on May 15, 2020. Yamhill County was approved by the Governor’s office to enter Phase I for a minimum of 21 days prior to making a request to move to Phase II. For additional information about County operations or facilities please visit the County website at https://www.co.yamhill.or.us/
Today, the Governor’s office provided specific guidance for Transit agencies. Yamhill County Transit implemented the proposed guidance prior to the Governor’s recommendations, apart from posting a notice for the maximum occupancy for each bus. The guidelines are available online at the Oregon Health Authority COVID -19 page in the Transit Agency Guidance document.
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as needed. Ridership has increased slightly and is currently at approximately 30% of normal.
Service Changes:
YCT continues to require all riders to wear a face covering, such as a mask or bandana. Below are some key requirements included in the Governor’s new guidance.
- When riding public transit, an individual must wear a face covering unless the individual:
- Is under two years of age.
- Has a medical condition that makes it hard to breathe when wearing a face covering.
- Has a disability that prevents the individual from wearing a face covering.
YCT asks the public to review the guidance provided in the link below and follow all the recommendations provided by the Oregon Health Authority regarding Mask and Face Covering Guidance for Business, Transit and Public.
The City of Newberg routes 5 and 7 are still temporarily discontinued until further notice. Yamhill County Transit continues the fare free policy until further notice.
What is Yamhill County Transit doing to keep you safe?
- Face Masks: Transit Drivers are wearing face masks and to limit exposure most buses are equipped with a protective barrier between the driver and the passenger. Masks are available to riders that do not have access to face coverings.
- Hand Sanitizer: Has been made available on the buses for rider use.
- Cleaning: YCT is meeting the Governor’s guidance to clean every four hours and wipe all frequently touched surfaces on the buses and disinfectant the buses each night.
- Social Distancing: To help with social distancing on the bus, the updated transit guidance requires six (6) feet of physical distance between the driver and passengers (except during boarding and when assisting with mobility devices). The new guidance requires at least 3 feet of physical distance between passengers. YCT installed signs and other markings and visual clues to encourage social distancing. When possible, riders may board through the back doors. This is to provide drivers more space so they can stay healthy.
What can you do?
We urge riders to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least three feet and ideally six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees. Avoid large gatherings and social events.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and face coverings are required when riding public transit.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Service Changes Effective May 4, 2020
Yamhill County – May 4, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon- Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots and Tillamook County Transit District.
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank all essential workers and those working on the front lines. We are so appreciative of the amazing First Transit staff, the managers, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors and maintenance staff. They are providing an essential service in our community under very challenging circumstances. Show them your appreciation if you have the opportunity.
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as needed. Ridership has increased slightly and is currently at approximately 25% of normal.
Service Changes:
Effective 5/4/20, YCT is requiring all riders to wear a face covering, such as a mask or bandana. Cherriots in Salem is also requiring face coverings.
Effective 5/4/20, YCT is reinstating the two morning trips that were discontinued on April 6, 2020.
- Route 33: 5:55 am and 7:00 am – REINSTATED
- Route 44: 6:25 am and 7:52 am – REINSTATED
The City of Newberg routes 5 and 7 are still temporarily discontinued until further notice.
Yamhill County Transit continues the fare free policy until further notice.
YCT is still allowing people on the bus for essential trips. Essential trips for work and critical needs like groceries or medication. Everyone else PLEASE STAY HOME.
What is Yamhill County Transit doing to keep you safe?
- Face Masks: Transit Drivers are wearing face masks and buses are equipped with protective barriers for the driver to limit exposure.
- Cleaning: We are wiping all frequently touched surfaces on our buses with disinfectant each night. In addition, frequently touched surfaces at the transit center and on the buses throughout the day are being wiped down with disinfectant.
- Social Distancing: To help with social distancing on the bus, certain seats are blocked on the bus. YCT has extra buses staged to help with routes where buses are getting full. When possible, riders may board through the back doors. This is to provide drivers more space so they can stay healthy.
What can you do?
We urge riders to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Social distancing: Practice “social distancing” keeping at least six feet between you and other people, including our operators and employees.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Do not touch your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw that tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow (and not your hands).
- Stay home if you are not feeling well
- Wear a face covering: Wear a face covering when out in public, and now you are required to wear face covering when riding Yamhill County Transit.
Please visit the YCBus.org website for the most current updates and visit the Rider Facebook page at YCBus Info for real time updates.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon.
Yamhill County Transit Service
COVID-19 Update
Yamhill County – April 13, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon- Yamhill County Transit (YCT) operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots and Tillamook County Transit District.
Effective 4/10/20, YCT is requesting that all riders wear face covering, like a mask or bandana. For riders transferring to Cherriots in Salem, please be aware Cherriots is requiring face coverings when riding the bus.
YCT is still allowing people on the bus for essential trips. Essential trips for work and critical needs like groceries or medication. Everyone else PLEASE STAY HOME.
Please remember to adhere to all CDC guidelines and maintain social distancing as much as possible when riding the bus. To help with social distancing on the bus, certain seats are blocked on the bus. YCT has extra buses staged to help with routes where buses are too full.
When possible, riders may board through the back doors. This is to provide drivers more space so they can stay healthy. Extra cleaning is taking place throughout the day at the transit center and on the buses.
Yamhill County Transit wants to thank the amazing First Transit staff, the manager, drivers, dispatchers, field supervisors and maintenance staff. They are providing an essential service in our community under very challenging circumstances.
YCT staff continues to monitor ridership and staffing levels and will adjust services as necessary. Ridership is remaining at last week’s level of about 20% of normal.
Please visit the YCBus.org website for the most current updates and visit the Rider Facebook page at YCbus Info for real time updates.
The Oregon Department of Transportation Rail and Public Transit Division has an informative Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) website that provides valuable information for transit riders and stakeholders regarding COVID-19 as it relates to public transportation in Oregon. ODOT-COVID-19_Frequently Asked Questions
Yamhill County Transit Service Adjustments Effective April 6, 2020
Yamhill County – April 6, 2020
Yamhill County Oregon- Yamhill County Transit (YCT) is scaling back bus service effective Monday, April 6, 2020. YCT operates transit service in Yamhill County with connections to Tri-Met, Cherriots and Tillamook County Transit District.
The YCT Board of Directors approved the following service adjustments:
- Temporarily discontinue Newberg local fixed routes 5 and 7. Demand Response services are available to cover rider demand for essential trips to the doctor, pharmacy, grocery store etc.
- Temporarily discontinue first round trip in the morning on routes 33 (5:55 am and 7:00 am) and 44 (6:25 am and 7:52 am)
- Temporarily implement a fare free system until the Governor ends the Stay at Home order.
These changes are posted on the YCBus.org website. These service adjustments equate to a 10% reduction in services. Ridership continues to decline and currently is at 21% of normal ridership levels. Staffing levels are reduced but currently YCT can maintain these proposed service levels.
Our neighboring transit agencies, TriMet and Cherriots are reducing services in response to COVID-19. YCT is monitoring their service changes and will make necessary adjustments.
“Our primary goal is to keep everyone safe and keep transit services operating as long as feasible so essential workers can get to employment and transit dependent riders can get to the doctor, pharmacy and grocery store, etc. “said Cynthia Thompson, YCT Transit Manager.
We are extremely appreciative that most riders are doing their part to limit exposure and staying home according to federal and local authorities’ requests. YCT asks riders to please wear face masks or covering of some type when riding the bus and to adhere to the recommended 6- foot social distancing standard.
The Yamhill County Transit team continues to meet weekly to review data and assess the current situation. All transit vehicles in service are being cleaned frequently with disinfectant throughout the day and every evening in preparation for the next day.
YCT continues to monitor and gather information and will provide updates regarding funding available to Yamhill County through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The U.S. Department of Transportation announced increased flexibility to help transit agencies respond to Coronavirus. In states where the Governor has declared an emergency, transit agencies may use federal formula funds for emergency related capital and operating expenses. In addition, it raises the cap on the federal governments share of those expenses.
The County and First Transit policies and protocols are built around providing the safest environment for the health and safety of our customers, employees, and partners.
The Centers for Disease Control website has excellent guidance for individuals, families, businesses and high risk groups. The links below provide additional guidance that may be helpful.
- CDC Guidance-Business-Response
- CDC-Disinfecting Facilities
- CDC-High-Risk Groups
- CDC-Prepare Your Family
Please remember to adhere to social distancing as much as possible when riding the bus. YCT dispatchers when scheduling rides for demand response services may ask questions to ensure customers are not traveling with symptoms. County Transit administrative staff are working remotely. First Transit staff are available at the YCT Transit Center during normal business hours Monday – Saturday. Please call 503-474-4900 for reservations and information.
Please watch for weekly updates on Ycbus.org and the Rider Facebook page YCbus Info.
Yamhill County Transit Response to COVID 19
Yamhill County – March 27, 2020
Yamhill County Transit (YCT) is still operating all services, commuter, local fixed routes and demand response services. The COVID-19 Pandemic is taking its toll on YCT ridership. Ridership is down 60% and staffing levels are at 75%. Yamhill County Transit truly appreciates that most riders are doing their part to limit exposure and staying home according to federal and local authorities’ requests.
The Yamhill County Transit team is meeting weekly to assess the current situation and to review data. All transit vehicles in service are being cleaned frequently with disinfectant throughout the day and every evening in preparation for the next day.
YCT is considering the first round of service adjustments in response to COVID-19. The Board of Directors will be asked to approve the following service changes at their April 2nd board meeting. YCT will notify the public, stakeholders and local jurisdictions prior to implementation.
April 6, 2020 Proposed Service Adjustments:
- Temporarily discontinue Newberg local fixed routes 5 and 7. Demand Response services will be available to cover rider demand so no one will be left without a way to get to the Dr. or grocery store.
- Temporarily discontinue first trip in the morning on Routes 33 (5:55 am) and 44 (6:20 am)
- Temporarily implement a fare free system until the Governor ends the Stay at Home order.
Revenue:
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act includes $25 billion in funds needed for essential public transportation services. The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced increased flexibility to help transit agencies respond to Coronavirus. In states where the Governor has declared an emergency, transit agencies may use federal formula funds for emergency related capital and operating expenses. In addition, it raises the cap on the federal governments share of those expenses.
There are also proposals at the State level to offer flexibility with State funding for transit.
The County and First Transit policies and protocols are built around providing the safest environment for the health and safety of our customers, employees, and partners.
We continue to stay in close contact with local, state, and national health authorities to stay up to date with information.
The Centers for Disease Control website has excellent guidance for individuals, families, businesses and high risk groups. The links below provide additional guidance that may be helpful.
- CDC Guidance-Business-Response
- CDC-Disinfecting Facilities
- CDC-High-Risk Groups
- CDC-Prepare Your Family
Please remember to adhere to social distancing as much as possible when riding the bus. YCT dispatchers when scheduling rides for demand response services may ask questions to ensure customers are not traveling with symptoms.
Please watch for weekly updates on Ycbus.org and the Rider Facebook page YCbus Info.
Yamhill County Transit Response to COVID 19
March 23, 2020
Yamhill County Transit (YCT) will continue to operate commuter, local fixed routes and demand response services for as long as possible during this COVID 19 pandemic.
Ridership is down more than 50% and we appreciate that most riders are doing their part to limit exposure and staying home according to federal and local authorities’ requests.
Yamhill County is in close contact with local, state, and national health authorities to stay up to date with information. The Oregon Health Authority is leading the response across Oregon, and we are following their direction in terms of precautions and mitigation measures.
In addition to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations, YCT is developing a Contagious Disease Response Plan to ensure services are available to those who need to get to work, to the grocery store and the doctor and may have no other way to get there.
The County and First Transit policies and protocols are built around providing the safest environment for the health and safety of our customers, employees, and partners.
Yamhill County Transit is very thankful to First Transit staff for being there in this time of need. This is a difficult time for everyone, and we will do our best to keep you informed as we monitor the situation daily.
YCT will provide updates on our website and Facebook Rider page weekly.
When customers are scheduling rides for Dial-A-Ride and Paratransit the dispatchers may ask questions to ensure customers are not traveling with symptoms.
We strongly urge riders to do their best to maintain the social distancing as much as possible even when riding the bus, keep as much distance as possible.
YCT will post the Yamhill County Transit Contagious Diseases Response Plan on our website as soon as possible. Please watch for weekly updates on YCbus.org and the Rider Facebook page YCbus Info.
How we're combatting coronavirus (COVID-19)
March 17, 2020
Yamhill County Transit response to the coronavirus (COVID-19)
The YCT team is closely watching developments with the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Currently, the number of confirmed cases in Oregon is relatively small. Yamhill County is in close contact with local, state, and national health authorities to stay up to date with information. The Oregon Health Authority is leading the response across Oregon, and we are following their direction in terms of precautions and mitigation measures.
To respond and help mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Yamhill County and First Transit staff are enhancing some of their procedures to clean our vehicles and facilities.
Maintenance staff will disinfect all common touch points on all vehicles and facilities. As an extra level of precaution, each evening our vehicles will be wiped and sprayed with a virus-killing disinfectant solution. However, it is important to keep in mind that the surfaces where people touch should never be considered completely sanitized. Surfaces are only clean until someone touches it or coughs/sneezes nearby.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these precautions to protect against coronavirus, and we urge our riders to follow them:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands or gloves.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then discard the tissue in the trash.
- Stay home when you are sick.
If the situation changes, we’ll work with health authorities to keep riders and employees safe. We will keep riders updated here on this page.
Follow us on Facebook and at YCbus Info for route and schedule updates.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Use the links below to find accurate information about this situation and do your part to help stop the spread of this coronavirus:
Oregon Health Authority
Twitter
@OHAOregon
@CDCgov
Facebook
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Web
Oregon Health Authority
Yamhill County Public Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
ODOT-Rail and Public Transit Division COVID-19 Info
Live on Facebook
Problem displaying Facebook posts. Backup cache in use.
Click to show error
