Metro bus drivers push for even more protection during outbreak

KING COUNTY, Wash. — Eric Stark, a bus operator for King County Metro was shot on the job in April 2019. The night operator was hailed a hero after facing a gunman and swerving his bus full of passengers to safety. This year, Stark says he’s facing something different but equally dangerous on the job: the risk of contracting COVID-19.

“Absolutely I am concerned for what I may be bringing home,” Stark said.

He says operators in downtown Seattle are seeing an increase of riders staying on buses instead of using it as a means of transportation.

"The single largest concern among transit operators right now is the number of non-destination riders that we have," Stark explains.

>> King County Metro to further reduce transit services

Cell phone video sent to KIRO 7 shows a bus full of people aboard a Metro bus sleeping in their seats. Stark says social distancing rules often go out the window during rides.

"Many of my fellow operators are experiencing crowding on their buses at night. no social distancing taking place and a lot of sleepers, even people who are refusing to get off when a driver reaches their layover," according to Stark.

A transit operator recently passed away due to complications from COVID-19. Operators say there's an urgent need for solutions because they are worried that drivers are risking their lives by going to work.

In a meeting with King County Metro leaders, Stark suggested a reservation system for the overnight hours to keep crowds off the bus. He also asked whether certain shops should be designated as drop off areas only.

"I think drivers would be a lot less concerned if it were just essential workers and people making essential trips," he said.

Starting Saturday, April 18, Metro will reduce trips by 15% on Saturdays and 4% on Sundays. On Monday, April 20th, the third round of weekday reductions will begin.

Metro has been updating riders through a blog: https://kingcountymetro.blog/ which says it has been taking these measures to protect passengers and drivers:

• Calling on riders to stay home, stay healthy

• Travel only for essential trips (food, medicine, jobs supporting the community)

• Began nightly disinfecting of all buses, water taxis and paratransit vehicles

• Suspended fare collections

• Reserved the front door for ADA access and for those who need boarding assistance.

• Installed safety straps to reserve the front of the bus for ADA customers

• Distributed cloth masks to operators

• Strongly encouraging riders to wear face coverings

• Redirecting security staff to support health and safety of operators and customers.

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