Regional Transit Service (RTS) is urging its customers to adopt realistic expectations and plan accordingly due to the total solar eclipse that will occur on Monday. With local officials projecting an influx of 300,000 to 500,000 visitors to the Finger Lakes region, RTS is expecting significant traffic delays leading up to and following the eclipse. RTS encourages customers to allow for plenty of extra travel time.
“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!”
What residents and visitors can expect from RTS on Monday:
- Wayne County Service Cancelled: Due to the state of emergency issued by Wayne County, RTS has canceled all services in Wayne County on Monday, April 8. RTS Wayne will resume its normal service on Tuesday, April 9.
- Commuter Route Cancelled: The 91 Newark/Lyons route that runs between the RTS Transit Center and Lyons will not operate on Monday, April 8, due to traffic forecasts predicting 2-5 hour delays on expressways. This route will resume 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.
