DART News Release
February 10, 2021
DART Continues Requirement for Face Masks on Public Transit
In response to the increased spread of the COVID-19 virus across the country, and in alignment with the executive order signed by President Biden, and the order issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) will continue to require a CDC approved face mask be worn over the mouth and nose by passengers and operators at all times while on DART vehicles or properties.
Refusing to wear a mask, unless exempted or excluded under the CDC guidelines, is a violation of federal law and failure to comply will result in denial of boarding or removal, and passengers may be subject to federal penalties.
On January 21, 2021, President Biden issued an Executive Order, Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel, requiring masks to be worn in airports, on commercial aircraft, and in various modes of surface transportation. On January 29, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), issued an order requiring the wearing of masks by travelers when boarding, disembarking and for the duration of travel.
If a DART passenger is concerned with someone not wearing a mask, they can contact DART Customer Service at (214) 979-1111, or use the "DART Say Something" app, which can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play for free.
Staying Safe While Riding DART
DART remains committed to doing everything possible to keep both our patrons and employees safe through this pandemic. DART remains in close contact with local, state and national health authorities, including the Texas Department of State Health Services and the CDC. DART encourages passengers who feel sick or are experiencing symptoms to stay home and avoid public places.
Face Masks and Hand Sanitizer
DART requires a CDC approved face mask be worn over the mouth and nose by passengers and operators at all times while riding DART buses, trains and paratransit vehicles, Trinity Railway Express trains, at DART stations, on platforms, in buildings and on-board the Dallas Streetcar. Face masks and hand sanitizer dispensers are installed on all buses, light rail vehicles and Dallas streetcars for use by passengers.
Cleaning and Protection
DART continues to undertake aggressive agency-wide cleaning and safety protocols on buses, light rail, paratransit vehicles and properties. In addition to thorough nightly cleanings, DART vehicles receive additional cleanings at the eight terminus stations throughout the day. Red and Blue Line trains are cleaned every 60 minutes. Orange and Green Line trains are cleaned every 90 minutes. DART buses and trains are also cleaned on a rotating basis with hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning solutions to sanitize and disinfect each vehicle.
Almost 85% of the DART bus fleet is currently equipped with an air purification and disinfection technology system (either ultraviolet or ionic) to kill viruses as air is recirculated throughout the bus.
DART Operator Safety Shields
DART has installed respiratory droplet shields throughout the bus fleet to help protect operators and passengers. Designed by DART Engineering, in collaboration with Fleet Maintenance & Bus Operations teams, these operator safety shields are made of high-impact plexiglass and are installed between the operator and passengers to enhance social distancing.
Social Distancing
DART recommends maintaining a six-foot distance between both fellow riders and your DART operator, leaving an open seat between yourself and other riders when available, avoiding large groups and staying home if you feel sick or are experiencing symptoms.
To enforce social distancing practices and protect customer and employee well-being, all transit center waiting areas have been temporarily closed. DART riders can still use the outdoor areas for boarding buses and light rail vehicles.
You can find more information about how DART is working to keep our passengers safe at www.dart.org/health.
-- 30 --
