COVID-19 Information

Last updated 04/19/2022

The ACCESS program is closely monitoring the spread and mitigation of coronavirus (COVID-19) and taking preventative measures as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.

ACCESS services continue to operate as normal at this time. To schedule a trip, please call your regular service provider. 

Effective April 19, 2022, masks are strongly encouraged but no longer required on ACCESS vehicles.

Effective June 20, 2021, capacity constraints on vehicles have been eliminated. Ride sharing with multiple people on board has resumed as normal.

Customer service staff are still available to help by phone Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  at (412) 562-5353 or TTY 711. You may also find the answer to your question in the “FAQ” section below. Applications and ePurse deposit and refund request forms will still be processed in a timely manner. While the ACCESS program office remains closed to visitors, you may call the program office to set up an appointment to make ePurse deposits or drop off applications Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You must wear a mask to enter the office.

The ACCESS program is included in Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s Pandemic Plan. Updates will be provided as Pittsburgh Regional Transit and the Allegheny County Health Department receive them. For more information, go to: portauthority.org/coronavirus.

FAQ:

How can riders ensure the limited spread of germs on vehicles?

All riders are encouraged to help prevent the exposure to and spread of germs and illness. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently. Do not sneeze and cough into your hands, and instead cough or sneeze into your shoulder, sleeve, or elbow. Anyone who feels sick is encouraged to stay home and contact your doctor. Masks are encouraged, but no longer required.

What is being done to keep vehicles clean?

All high touch surfaces inside vehicles are sanitized daily. High touch surfaces include, but are not limited to: seatbelts, securements, lift handles and controls, stanchions, doors, window sills, steering wheels and radios.

Are there any plans to alter service as the virus spreads across our region?

The ACCESS program provides necessary services connecting people to their jobs, medical appointments, and critical needs throughout Allegheny County. ACCESS services are deemed as “life sustaining,” and will continue to operate. Services are being operated with the COVID-19 risk in mind, and all necessary steps are being taken to protect drivers and riders.

Should it be necessary to limit ACCESS service based on the availability of drivers and support staff, the community will be notified by automated call-outs, the ACCESS website (myaccessride.com.), and Port Authority press releases.

What other resources are available?:
Pittsburgh Regional Transit

Allegheny County Health Department

United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s 2-1-1 Hotline

Allegheny County SeniorLine

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

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