CARTS is beginning to return to more regular service and operations on Sept. 1, 2020 and part of that includes reinstating fares, social distancing and requiring facial coverings. They will do so in a way that protects the safety of operators and riders.
CARTS will restore a modified service on the Interurban Coach Express Gold Route 1517 on Aug. 24, 2020 with service to Texas State University.
In response to COVID-19, CARTS is taking steps to protect the health of passengers and employees by reducing the potential exposure of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) while still providing essential transportation to the community.
To ensure everyone’s safety, they are implementing the following practices:
Seats have been closed off to allow safe physical distancing from other customers, so please leave empty seats between you and other riders. This means that buses will have limited capacity seating on all routes.
CARTS requires facial coverings while aboard all CARTS vehicles and when entering CARTS facilities. Children aged 2 years and younger will be exempted from using a face covering but must maintain safe social distancing (six feet) during transport.
Please have your fare ready before you board. Drivers will not sell passes or make change. Passengers can purchase passes at CARTS stations or with the HopThru app on their mobile devices. Text “hopthru” to 43506 to be sent a download link. Or go to the app store or google play to download app. The Hopthru app makes paying for your CARTS pass easy, safe and a contact free way to purchase passes.. Your first one-way ticket is free when you download the app on your smart device.
If you need special accommodations or assistance while traveling (for example, help with a wheelchair or with carrying bags), if possible, take a transportation “buddy” with you (preferably from your household) to help you during travel. Drivers will maintain safe distancing when possible.
CARTS will continue to provide necessary transportation to its customers and its call center is staffed from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday – Friday, to schedule transportation for its customers.
All standing rides for dialysis and medical appointments will remain in place unless modified by the customer.
Passengers with essential transportation needs should call the call center at 512-478-RIDE (7433) to schedule a ride.
If you are sick with COVID-19, think you might have COVID-19, or think you have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19. Stay home and contact your health care provider. If you need transportation to COVID-19 testing or to COVID-19 treatment facilities, talk to your health care provider for assistance. Avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis. Do not visit public areas.
Your health and safety is the number one priority.
For more information, updates and to view schedules visit their website at RideCARTS.com or call (512)478-RIDE (7433).
CARTS is a legislatively created rural transit district serving the non-urbanized areas of Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Travis and Williamson counties. CARTS provides community-based regional transportation throughout its District. For information about CARTS and its services visit RideCARTS.com.
