CARTS transportation to reduce schedule

The Community Action Rural Transit System (CARTS), including Make the Connection, located around the state, including Columbiana County, announced it would reduce its operating schedule starting Monday, March 23rd.

They say the service adjustments are intended to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19) while recognizing the needs of those in the community who rely on public transportation.

These schedule changes will be in effect until further notice:

• The Make the Connection Shuttle will not be operating on Saturdays.

• Service will end at 6:00 pm county-wide Monday through Friday.

• The Make the Connection Shuttle will only run from 9:00 am through 3:00 pm Monday through Friday, with a final pick up at Walmart at 3:45 pm.

During this time, they say they also plan on implementing the following procedures:

• Multiple daily cleanings on buses and offices

• Providing hand sanitizer to employees

• Providing operators with protective gloves

• Sanitizing buses with hospital-grade cleaner daily

• Limiting, as much as possible, the number of clients on a vehicle at one time

CARTS is asking its clients to utilize passes as much as possible to avoid the exchange of money. Passes can be purchased with a credit/debit card by calling (330) 424-4015.