Cedar Rapids Transit Now Stalled Until May 15

The number of people who depend on public transit (city buses) in Cedar Rapids made it a very difficult decision on March 25 to suspend the service to help slow the spread of Coronavirus. According to The Gazette, even before the 25th, ridership was reportedly down 70 percent due in part to limitations and restrictions they made in response to the pandemic. But according to city officials, it was the right move to temporarily shut it down.

As Governor Reynolds announced in a press conference a few days ago, 77 of Iowa's 99 counties will be having many of their restrictions lifted come Friday, May 1. Linn County wasn't included, and in fact, many of their services and businesses will now stay closed until at least May 15.

That includes public transit in Cedar Rapids. The Gazette says "Neighborhood Transportation Service at Horizons will continue to provide daytime rides to work for those with critical employment transportation needs, including people who work at hospitals, grocery stores, care facilities, convenience stores and gas stations."

It's occasionally difficult to know 24 hours in advance if you'll need to schedule a ride but City Manager Jeff Pomerantz says NTS has been picking up the slack seamlessly. Call (319) 363-1321 if you need to use the service.

In other City of Cedar Rapids news, the following remain closed until at least May 15: City Hall, City Services Center, Water Administration Building, Central Fire Station, Animal Care & Control, Cedar Rapids Police Station, Ground Transportation Center, Northwest Recreation Center and Bender Pool.

All Cedar Rapids Public Library branches remain closed until further notice.

You're still allowed to visit city parks with social distancing in mind, but public restrooms are closed.