Considerations for Social Distancing on Public Transportation During the COVID-19 Recovery

COVID-19 has presented public transit agencies with unprecedented operational and fiscal challenges. In the San Francisco Bay Area, for example, public transit ridership remains approximately 90% below pre-pandemic levels as of November 10, 2020, according to Transit App. It is generally agreed that personal protective measures (i.e., masks, face shields, gloves), sanitation, and air ventilation — combined with social distancing — reduces the spread of COVID-19. However, experts do not agree on the minimum distance required on transit. While some research exists, a recommended social distance for travelers in enclosed environments is not well understood and likely varies on a number of context sensitive variables. This MTI research perspective reviews relevant literature and summarizes key findings. It should be noted that COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation. Readers are encouraged to consider this content in conjunction with latest health information and policy guidance.