New Metro Transit service changes go into effect Wednesday

New cuts to Metro Transit service go into effect Wednesday to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Among the changes are passenger limits on buses and trains to support social distancing. Only 10 passengers will be allowed on a 40-foot bus, and 15 will be able to board a 60-foot bus. There is also a limit of 15 passengers on each light rail car.

Train and bus lines will also run less frequently. Bus routes will run on Saturday service levels, and light rail lines will run every 20 minutes. The Northstar Commuter Rail Line will have two outbound and inbound trips to Minneapolis each weekday; it will not run on weekends.

Metro Transit said overall routes would be reduced by 40%. The new restrictions are on top of service cuts made last week that canceled all overnight service between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m.

Metro Transit said trains and buses should only be used for essential travel.