Baton Rouge, LA — May 15, 2020 — The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) will continue to run its Covid-19 current essential service through the implementation of Phase One reopening that will be effective on Friday, May 15, 2020, as outlined by Governor Edwards.

CATS designed its current essential service to accommodate an anticipated gradual, cautious reopening strategy.

"We are very happy to hear that the State has moved in a positive direction and is able to begin reopening,” said CATS CEO Bill Deville. “We have been thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting our vehicles and facilities daily, and we will continue to do so moving forward into the ‘new normal’ recovery period,” Deville continued.

To enhance and maximize safety during this Covid-19 period, the agency continues to implement social distancing on its vehicles and facilities by enforcing limited seating and a maximum capacity of ten individuals per bus. CATS has been outfitting its frontline employees with PPE and strongly urges all customers to wear a mask or face covering that protects the mouth and nose when riding CATS.

CATS is working with multiple agencies in the community to monitor trends and best practices and continues to monitor its daily ridership in the wake of the Stay at Home Order. CATS will continue to comply with all federal, state, and local guidelines, including those from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Governor John Bel Edwards, and Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome.

More information on CATS services and efforts during COVID-19 can be found on the CATS website or by calling the CATS Customer Care Center at 225-389-8282. Updates are shared on CATS social media channels: Facebook – CATSBR, Twitter - @btrcats, and Instagram - @btr_cats.