ATA Friday Super Shuttle FR 201220 - fixed route suspended during COVID-19 Crises

FR 201220 SUSPENDED (effective immediately) ATA is conducting a systemwide review of the public transit services it offers to adjust to the impact of COVID-19. This review and subsequent changes were made in coordination with PennDOT. Following sweeping closings and restrictions of public activity that have occurred in the ongoing public health emergency, RideATA will suspend for now, this service offered on Friday of each week.

From RideATA:

While developments around the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to evolve, we understand that you may be concerned about what this means when riding our public transit busses.

We want you to be as informed as possible. Here you will find the latest information issued by RideATA
as well as helpful tips on what you can do to protect yourself and fellow riders while riding public transportation in the region.

ATA continues to work closely with its statewide network of transit systems, the Commonwealth through Department of Health, PennDOT and local agency partners in the six counties and in Clarion County. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website remains an important link for your computer and mobile device for the latest developments, and authoritative advice for your personal safety and well-being. We also suggest that you follow the websites established by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.  To view a real time dashboard of COVID-19 cases worldwide, there is the highly acclaimed website from Johns Hopkins University - Center for Systems Science and Engineering. Thanks to Professor Lauren Gardner. This is worth a bookmark in your web browser.

Please check back for updates to this page on RideATA for advisories for the latest information affecting transit passengers. Contact RideATA Customer service via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or tawk.to text on this website if you have a question or a suggestion.

 RIDEATA CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-866-282-4968

FOLLOW RideATA on FACEBOOK for Additional Timely Information

 This 3 page guidance was announced by Dr. Fauci (CDC) at the March 9 briefing, and intended for wide distribution.  Download your copy here.

"So (with the help of scientists from Australia) we came up with the idea — it would be very good for clarity, so why don’t we just put it together, edit it a little, and put it in a way that people can look: “What about the home? What about the school? What about the workplace?”  These are really simple, low-tech things. There’s nothing in there that’s complicated. But it’s just stated in a way that’s clear, that people can understand."  - Dr. Fauci, CDC - Task Force

  CDC_workplace-school-and-home-guidance.pdf

 
  Read this and share the facts about coronavirus disease.

03-23-2020 Free Information as a public service of these journalists.

FROM THE WASINGTON POST

The Washington Post is providing our daily live updates, comprehensive guide to the pandemic and our Coronavirus Updates newsletter for free, so that all readers have access to this important information about the coronavirus pandemic.

FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES

We are providing free access to the most important news and useful guidance on the coronavirus outbreak to help readers understand the pandemic. Sign up with an email address to read all of the articles on this page.

WPSU TV/FM

WPSU is following the effects of COVID-19 on our central Pennsylvania communities. Check back here frequently for updates on the story.

 Helpful Hygiene Tips for Riders

Local health departments are also offering advice that is valuable and worth heeding. This advice is not unique to shared public transportation riders but in every gathering place we happen to be as we go about our lives. So here it is (and you have heard some of it already):

1. Wash your hands.

Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs, particularly after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Follow these five steps every time:

Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice, or “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
• Carry alcohol-based (60-95% alcohol) hand sanitizer when you aren’t able to wash your hands.

2. Change your seat.

If you notice someone near you who appears to be visibly sick, move away from them if possible.

If escaping the path of someone’s cough or sneeze isn’t an option, respectfully pivot in the opposite direction, being sure to face away from the trajectory of their cough or sneeze.

3. Sit down.

While an entirely hands-free commute or ride probably isn’t possible, it’s best to avoid holding on to poles and straps as germs can survive on these surfaces. If possible, opt to sit, keeping your hands in your pockets to avoid touching unnecessary surfaces. This option is more of a best-case scenario, as trains and buses are often full during peak travel hours, and individuals with physical disabilities should always have first priority for seating.

4. Use good judgment.

If you are sick, stay home. If that’s not an option, don’t cough or sneeze into your hands. You’re more likely to touch something and spread germs that could infect others. Instead, cough or sneeze into your shoulder, sleeve or elbow. Additionally, it has been an active flu and respiratory disease season. The CDC and local physicians continue to recommend getting a flu shot - it’s never too late

DOWNLOAD THE POSTER

In February RideATA distributed posters and handbills of the PA Department of Health's informative infographic on COVID-19.

You can obtain your PDF copy here by clicking on the poster. Take Care.

What we are doing.

03-26-20 Friday only service suspended - Known as "Friday Super Shuttle."

ATA Friday Super Shuttle FR 201220 fixed route suspended during COVID-19 Crises.

FR 201220 SUSPENDED (effective immediately) ATA is conducting a systemwide review of the public transit services it offers to adjust to the impact of COVID-19. This review and subsequent changes were made in coordination with PennDOT. Following sweeping closings and restrictions of public activity that have occurred in the ongoing public health emergency, RideATA will suspend for now, this service offered on Friday of each week.

03-20-20 Suspension of service for the ORANGE ROUTE in the DuBois area effective Monday March 23, 2020 until further notice.

ATA fixed routes in DuBois area adjusted during COVID-19 Crises
DuBois Orange Route suspended until further notice.

ATA is conducting a systemwide review of the public transit services it offers to adjust to the impact of COVID-19. This review and subsequent changes were made in coordination with PennDOT. Following sweeping closings and restrictions of public activity that have occurred in the past week, RideATA will offer modified fixed route service in the DuBois area. Effective Monday, March 23, ATA will be temporarily suspending the Orange route in DuBois. Riders are being asked to utilize alternative fixed route services on RideATA system. For now, as the need demand, the ATA routes Blue, Purple and Red in the DuBois area, will continue to operate on published schedules.

03-19-20 An important notice from ATA regarding access to administrative and maintenance facilities in Bradford, DuBois, Johnsonburg

ATA offices and maintenance facilities are now closed to the public until further notice.  Persons having business with ATA are asked to contact the authority via phone or email.  Johnsonburg, Bradford and DuBois facilities remain in operation but are restricted to employees only until further notice. The Authority is observing CDC standards for social distance by rotating personnel and using remote locations. The goal is to conduct operations to the fullest extent possible while safeguarding public health and the well-being of riders who need transportation during this emergency.  A drop box is available at ATA Johnsonburg for the submission of routine client forms. Please follow instructions posted at this drop box location.

03-16-20 CLARION CAT BUS Campus Loop will not operate with cancelation of classes 03-16-20

Effective immediately the CAMPUS LOOP for the Clarion University campus is suspended.  The suspension will remain in effect during the suspension of Clarion University services and classes on the Clarion campus.  The CAT BUS MALL LOOP that serves the Clarion community will remain in service following its published schedule.

What We Know.

03-26-20 COVID-19 emergency funding for U.S. transit.

Paul Skoutelas, CEO, American Public Transportation Association:
“The American Public Transportation Association (APTA), on behalf of the public transportation industry, applauds Congressional leaders and the Trump Administration for reaching a bipartisan agreement on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that includes $25 billion in desperately needed funds for essential public transportation services. Last night, the U.S. Senate passed the bill unanimously, by a vote of 96-0. The House of Representatives is expected to consider the bill on Friday and the President has expressed his support for the legislation. Public transit is a critical lifeline for millions of Americans, and this legislation will provide much needed support to the transit systems working tirelessly to provide essential public transit services for health care workers, first responders, and grocery and pharmacy workers, as well as medical transportation for kidney dialysis, cancer treatments and other critical care.”  Full statement at this link.

03-25-20 Confirmed COVID-19 cases in RideATA service area.

Clearfiled County  2

Potter County  1

It Takes All of Us to Fight COVID-19
Why flatten the curve.

 03-23-20 Penn Highlands Healthcare Welcomes Medical Supply Donations

Penn Highlands Healthcare invites community members and organizations to donate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the region’s healthcare system. Penn Highlands will add these supplies to their inventory as the healthsystem enacts preparedness measures in the event that the spread of COVID-19 should pose a threat to our community. Penn Highlands Healthcare Supply Chain Management has issued a list of the supplies that may potentially be needed: N95 respirator masks (these must be N95), face masks, surgical masks, exam gloves, isolation gowns, head covers, shoe covers and Sani-Cloth wipes.  Donors may reach out to Alycia Scott, Procurement Specialist (814-375-3391 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or Jennifer Bowser, MMIS Support Assistant (814-375-3370 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). For more information about COVID-19 at Penn Highlands Health Care visit here.

03-23-20 From our ATA Southern Division Office (Jefferson County Senior Centers meals program & Clearfield County - Houtzdale Food Pantry)

This week of March 23rd is the last week the Jefferson County Senior Centers will be providing a daily hot meal for take-out at their Senior Centers. Regular center participants will be able to pick up a box of frozen meals once a week on Mondays from the centers thereafter.

The Houtzdale Senior Center (Clearfield County) will be closed until the end of April. The Houtzdale Food Pantry will be open Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM by appointment only. (Souce Central Pennsylvania Community Action Agency- CPCA)

3-23-20 What happens when heroes emerge like Brookville Glove for 136 years, providing a large selection of quality gloves that are 100% American made.

On Facebook Brookville Glove - Brookville Glove is currently producing and selling protective masks for many health care facilities. Our main priority is the safety of our customers and the people that they come in contact with. Our reusable masks are high quality and made of soft material that lasts longer than generic masks. Our team at Brookville Glove prioritizes and values our customers that buy our highly recommended gloves. However due to orders from Governor Wolf, we are currently restricted by the government to produce our American made gloves. All orders on gloves will be postponed until further notice. For any further questions please contact our office at (814) 849-7325. Thank for for your cooperation.

03-18-20 From Pennsylvania Department of Health - Now shows test data by county - TABLE  There are 133 positive tests in PA since noon today.

Coronavirus​ PA COVID-19 Update  03-18-20  Noon

03-17-20 From Pennsylvania Department of Human Services - CAOs are closed

Department of Human Services Closes County Assistance Offices Statewide to the Public, Encourages All Pennsylvanians to Use Online Services

03-17-20 From our ATA Southern Division Office (Clearfield - Jefferson)

• Happy Hearts Day care is closed till 3/30/20

• DuBois Mall – all mall doors are locked (no people allowed in halls) thru 3/27. Stores have outside doors open for pick up’s.

• Clearfield AAA (Aging) is providing delivered meals to all Seniors requiring them at this time (Meals on Wheels Program). They have no centers providing meals to go.

• Jefferson AAA (Aging) is providing meals to go - further information on RideATA Facebook. They also have a meal delivery program for those in need.

• CJ Packaging in DuBois will be closed until further notice starting tomorrow, 3/18/20.

• DuBois YMCA is closed including child care services till 3/30/20

• DuBois Area School District is implementing a “grab-and-go” meal program for district students Effective Tuesday (today) through March 27, the district plans to provide a free breakfast/lunch program through a drive-through at the DuBois Area High School and at C.G. Johnson Elementary in Reynoldsville. Breakfast and lunch items will be served in one bag and will be available for pick up between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on weekdays.

03-16-20 Four counties have adopted emergency declarations as precaution. No recorded cases of covid-19.

• Clearfield
• Jefferson
• McKean
• Potter

 ________________________________

Clarion University Coronavirus Information (clarion.edu)

CU Issued 3-12-20 - From Dr. Dale - Face to Face Instruction Ends Monday March 16.

Dear Clarion University community,

We are continuing to carefully monitor the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), a potentially serious respiratory illness. The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff are our primary concern. As the situation continues to rapidly evolve, I, working with a campus team, have made the determination to suspend all face-to-face instruction until further notice, effective Monday, March 16.

Classes will continue, but they will be delivered in an online or alternative format. Individual faculty members will determine how their classes will be delivered. Face-to-face instruction is prohibited. Students can be assured that they will be able to complete the credits for which they are registered, and graduating seniors will be able to complete their programs.

 03-16-20 Effective immediately the CAMPUS LOOP for the Clarion University campus is suspended.  The suspension will remain in effect during the suspension of Clarion University services and classes on the Clarion campus.  The CAT BUS MALL LOOP that serves the Clarion community will remain in service following its published schedule.

University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Coranavirus Information  (upb.pitt.edu)

UPB Issued 3/11/20 - Classes Canceled Week of March 16 - On Line Classes Begin March 23
The health and safety of everyone in the campus community, and our neighbors in the region, are most important, which is why the university is taking these necessary precautions to avoid further spread of the virus. Beginning March 23, classes will be online for the remainder of the spring semester. To prepare for the transition to online instruction, classes are canceled the week of March 16.

 Indiana University of Pennsylvania Coronavirus Information and IUP Updates (iup.edu)

IUP Indiana/Punxsy 03-12-20  -  A Message from President Driscoll - Face to face classes delayed until March 23.

...We have made the decision that there will be no face-to-face classes until Monday, March 23, to allow time for faculty to restructure those courses to minimize the risk of disease transmission while still meeting educational objectives.

I am also asking students not to return to campus or return to the residence halls until March 21 or 22. Those classes already delivered on-line will resume as scheduled on Monday, March 16.

Governor Wolf Announces Closure of Pennsylvania Schools Now Through April 6

03-23-20 Governor Tom Wolf said in a press conference Monday afternoon that schools in Pennsylvania will remain closed for two more weeks, April 6 at the earliest.

“The measure may seem extreme. However, we are in desperate times and need to make drastic changes in order to save lives,” he said on Twitter.

03-13-20 Today, Governor Tom Wolf announced that all K-12 Pennsylvania schools will be closed for 10 business days effective Monday, March 16. The administration has been working with school districts as well as state and local officials to gather input on this decision. The Wolf Administration will continue to monitor Covid-19 in the commonwealth, and at the end of 10 days will reevaluate and decide whether continued closure is needed.

Governor Wolf made the following statement:

We understand that these are trying times and recognize the impact of the coronavirus on our students and communities.
First and foremost, my top priority as governor – and that of our education leaders – must be to ensure the health and safety of our students and school communities.
As such, I am ordering that all schools in the commonwealth close for the next two weeks.
Be aware that no school district will be penalized if it fails to meet the 180 day or school hours requirements.
The Department of Education will work with intermediate units and other stakeholders to support school districts with any continuity of learning plans they may be pursuing.
Also, the Pennsylvania Department of Education announced today that it received a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to allow eligible schools to serve meals to low income students in a non-congregate setting, such as a drive-through or grab and go, during this closure. We will also work with schools to assist them with those plans.
We appreciate your collaboration as we work together to deal with this difficult issue.

Take Care. (Ride ATA Updated 03-27-20)

ATA is the Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania established in 1976.

ATA's maintenance and operations facility in Bradford serves McKean and Potter counties. ATA Mechanics work as a team serving the entire six county region.

ATA is seeking a qualified mechanic for employment based in its transit maintenance and opeartions facility in Bradford.

Mechanic with inspection license and CDL preferred.

Diesel and gasoline type engine experience required.

Electronic diagnostics and computer skills a plus.

Candidate should have experience to prioritize and schedule service.

WORK IN THE BRADFORD MAINTENANCE CENTER OF ATA

 Apply with on-line employment appilcation found on RideATA.com

CLICK HERE for a PDF file MAIL-IN APPLICATION  IInterested applicants should send a resume/application to::

Personnel

Area Transportation Authority

44 Transportation Center

Johnsonburg, PA 15845. 

You may EMAIL your completed application PDF to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Position will remain open until filled.

For an application or more information call 1-877-777-7304

The Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania (ATA) is an

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

POSTED – January 22, 2020 

EXPIRES – OPEN

ATA Values Statement