Valley Metro extends its free service for two weeks

Rides on Valley Metro will be free for a little while longer.

Roanoke announced Thursday that the procedure of suspending fare collection, will be extended from April 24 to May 8.

Restrictions regarding nine passengers per bus will still remain in effect.

In an effort to encourage social distancing, Valley Metro says it will not be collecting fares.

Fare collection will reportedly stop starting on Friday, March 27 and ending on April 24, but it could end later.

Officials say seven-day and monthly VPASS holders will be able to exchange their valid pass for a new pass. VPASS holders getting a new pass should not activate the new pass until after fares are reinstated.

Valley Metro is asking passengers to follow these guidelines:

• Travel only for essential needs
• Use the front door when getting on the bus and the rear doors to get off the bus. All ADA features will be available as normal.
• Limit interaction with bus operators to emergencies only
• No extended rides on one route will be permitted

Source: WSLS News 10