When winter weather strikes the area, MCTS will provide service unless the roads are impassible (which usually happens only once a decade). If you’re riding MCTS during snowy or icy weather, these tips will help you manage the worst Mother Nature has to offer.
Expect Delays in Service
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Bus operators typically start very early in the morning, often before snowplows have had time to do their thing. When this happens, bus operators might experience challenges getting to work on time, which could delay service.
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Safety first means buses must travel more slowly in wet and slippery roads. The bus operator is ensuring your safety, which means you might not arrive at your destination on time, but you will arrive 😊.
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Historically, some of our routes with the largest delays include the 14 on Humboldt between Hamilton and Water, and the 21 and 30 on Prospect near the intersection of North Avenue; Humboldt has a very steep hill while the intersection at Prospect and North tends to ice up and is tricky for our drivers to navigate. Be sure to give yourself extra time for routes in these areas.
Look Before You Leave
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Track your bus in real-time with the Umo app or at RideMCTS.com/TripPlanner.
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Check the Service Alerts page at RideMCTS.com/alerts.
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Follow @RideMCTS on Facebook or Twitter to receive general alerts about snow/ice service.
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Call 414-937-3218 Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. for live assistance.
Waiting for and Boarding Buses in Ice and Snow
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When roads are snowy or icy, MCTS drivers may not pull all the way to the curb to avoid getting stuck. Be careful when walking between the bus and the curb. Drivers will assist riders with mobility devices.
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Stand back from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop.
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We know sidewalks are also slippery so don’t run after a bus. Take your time and stay safe. Drivers will wait for you.
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We also suggest you stand on the sidewalk at the bus stop to wait instead of on snow piles. Accidents with our buses or other cars can happen if you slip off the slick snow into the road. If your stop or the surrounding sidewalk aren’t shoveled, please contact the municipality where the stop is located.
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Before heading out the door, make sure your phone is charged and that you have warm clothing — don’t forget gloves and a hat!
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Leave plenty of time to walk to your stop so you can get to where you need to go in a safe and timely manner.
Our goal is to keep everyone safe – both our drivers and passengers alike. So even as things slow down, know that there is a lot going on behind the scenes to coordinate safe travel in difficult weather. Winter conditions require extra effort from all of us, and we appreciate your patience, understanding and preparedness when the time comes.