Metro Transit riders face delays after nearly 20 conductors call out sick

Frustrated light rail passengers dealt with several delays this weekend when Metro Transit canceled rides because of a worker shortage.

Metro Transit officials said 18 conductors were out sick, leaving some riders stuck on the platform.

Catching the light rail is how Kenny Fair makes his way around town every day.

“It’s super important. It’s essential to my day,” he said.

If the train isn’t running, it could derail his schedule.

“I would have to figure out a new way to get around. It’s in like a timely manner, so it’s the fastest way to get from city to city,” Fair said.

On Saturday, some light rail riders had to find a plan B after cancellations and longer wait times shook up the schedule.

"Yesterday, we just had an unfortunate situation where we had 18 train operators out of our full capacity that were out sick," Metro Transit spokesman Howie Padilla said.

Metro Transit officials are still investigating if COVID-19 was a factor

“For our protocols, we’ve told folks if you’re experiencing any symptoms, stay home,” Padilla said.

Until conductors get back to work, light rail passengers may have to wait a bit longer for a ride.

Normally the train comes every 10 minutes, but the shortage may bump up wait times to 15 minutes.

"We asked some of our operators to work extra, stay overtime to help fill gaps and we rescheduled a little bit,” Padilla said.

A popular use for the light rail is traveling to events to avoid parking, but others rely heavily on the light rail for daily transportation.

Make sure to sign up for rider alerts and follow Metro Transit on social media to stay updated with any changes or cancellations.