RTS urging customers to plan ahead for Monday

RTS urging customers to plan ahead, expect delays for eclipse on Monday

BY Spectrum News Staff Rochester

UPDATED 9:53 AM ET Apr. 08, 2024 PUBLISHED 2:58 PM ET Apr. 05, 2024 PUBLISHED 2:58 PM EDT Apr. 05, 2024

The solar eclipse is almost here and the Regional Transit Service (RTS) is urging riders to plan accordingly due to the expected increase in traffic.

Officials are projecting there will be 300,000 to 500,000 visitors coming into the Finger Lakes region for the event.

“RTS joins local government partners and businesses in encouraging residents and visitors to be prepared for the eclipse and adopt realistic expectations, especially when it comes to travel plans before and after the event,” said RTS CEO Miguel Velázquez. “The RTS team is ready to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience with the community. Please plan ahead, be safe, and enjoy the eclipse!”

RTS has provided the following on what residents and visitors can expect on Monday:

Two Commuter Routes Cancelled: The 91 Newark/Lyons and 92 Hilton/Hamlin routes will not operate on Monday, April 8, due to traffic forecasts predicting 2–5 hour delays on expressways. These routes will return to regular service on Tuesday, April 9.
All Other Routes Running on a Regular Schedule: Our customers rely on us to get them to work, school, medical appointments, and the grocery store. The same is going to be true for our customers before and after the eclipse, which is why we plan to maintain our normal schedule.
RTS Buses Will Not Stop During Eclipse: Customers wishing to view the eclipse should choose a safe viewing destination and arrive early. RTS Bus Operators have been instructed to operate their regularly scheduled route plans and not pull over during the eclipse. Please do not ask them to do so.
Use 511NY for Travel Conditions: Streets and/or bridges may be closed, and extensive traffic jams are possible. Please use 511NY for travel conditions.
Stay up to Date on Potential RTS Service Changes: It is possible that RTS will have to implement detours along certain routes or other service changes. Customers can stay up-to-date on these potential changes and service alerts by downloading the Transit app, signing up for text alerts, or visiting the Service Alerts page on the RTS website.