Coronavirus: Metra Closing Some Railcars Until 'Further Notice'

CHICAGO, IL — Metra announced Wednesday it will be closing one car on all of its trains until further notice in another step to protect its train crews during the coronavirus pandemic. In a news release, Metra said it's also asking passengers to practice social distancing while on board its trains, as there should be enough room in the open cars for passengers to spread out.

The new procedure will "limit opportunities for our passengers to be exposed," Metra said, in the news release. "Conductors will continue to ensure at all times that passengers safely board and disembark from trains."

On Metra’s 10 diesel lines, Metra will be closing the cab car— the car furthest from the locomotive — on its trains to all passengers, according to the news release. On the Metra Electric Line, the car on the north end of the train will be closed, Metra added.

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In a further effort to promote social distancing and protect the health and safety of everyone on board its trains, Metra asks that passengers be conscious of the recommended six-foot rule, meaning passengers should not sit in adjacent seats, should try to preserve a six-foot distance from other passengers and should not gather in the aisles or train vestibules, the news release said.

Metra also asks passengers to move to a different car if there aren't enough available seats in any given car for passengers to follow appropriate social distancing, according to the news release.

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In addition, passengers are asked to remain in their seats until the trains reach their stations, as Metra crews will accommodate the extra time required for everyone to board or leave its trains safely, Metra added.

"The safety of its passengers and train crews remains Metra’s highest priority – especially during this difficult time," Metra said, in the news release. "Metra crews will continue to be available and will walk through the trains to monitor conditions and address any passenger concerns."