MARTA says it plans to maintain rail and bus schedules amid the growing coronavirus outbreak unless directed to scale back service by public health or other government officials.

In a statement issued Friday, CEO Jeffrey Parker said the agency “understands the importance of maintaining public transportation for the thousands of people who rely on us every day.”

“MARTA will continue to monitor COVID 19 developments while providing bus, rail and paratransit service at our current levels unless a rollback of service is necessary, whether directed by health, transportation or government agencies, significantly, diminished ridership or a necessary decrease in staffing levels,” Parker said.

He said the agency is coordinating with local emergency management agencies and Gov. Brian Kemp’s Coronavirus Task Force.

MARTA recently announced enhanced cleaning of its trains, buses, stations and other facilities in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The state's Xpress bus service has announced similar measures.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com