Milwaukee's streetcar The Hop is reducing its hours in response to decreased ridership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning this Thursday, March 26, the streetcar will operate from 7 a.m. to 9 p.,. daily, with cars arriving every 20 minutes.
"While it’s important that the streetcar continue to serve those who rely on the service to reach essential jobs or destinations, the current statewide efforts to eliminate non-essential travel and prevent the spread of the disease by keeping people at home have resulted in decreased ridership that no longer warrants a full schedule of operations," the streetcar's management wrote in a statement.
The streetcar is also requesting extra health precautions from riders. "We ask that you join the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by being extra vigilant in exercising recommended hygiene practices, including regular and thorough hand washing, avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth, and covering coughs and sneezes with either a tissue or your elbow," the statement read. "On board the streetcar, passengers should leave additional space between themselves and others, and utilize the seats whenever possible as opposed to holding the poles or hand straps. Most importantly, if you are exhibiting any symptoms or feel ill, please stay at home."
The new schedule can be found here.