This week, due to extremely cold weather conditions, MATBUS was forced to cancel service for an extended period (Tuesday, January 29 at 6:15 p.m. through Thursday, January 31 at 10:15 a.m.). We know that MATBUS is a crucial service on which many people rely. When extraordinary weather conditions force MATBUS to cancel services, it is not a decision made lightly. We know the inconvenience it causes our passengers; however, passenger safety is of upmost importance. We would like to explain the circumstances contributing to the recent service cancellations:
Mechanical Issues
On Tuesday, once the temperature reached -20°, many mechanical functions of the buses stopped working. These mechanical failures ultimately caused the buses to be non-operational.
MATBUS staff worked tirelessly to keep buses running, but buses continued to fail as temperatures plummeted. In an attempt to complete the day’s routes, smaller, gasoline-powered Paratransit vehicles were substituted for the fixed routes.
Thursday’s Late Start
There was no service on Wednesday, although MATBUS shop staff spent the day and night towing and repairing buses. Due to continued weather-related mechanical difficulties and a forecast of continued sub-zero temperatures, MATBUS leadership made the decision to start service late on Thursday to ensure reliable service could be provided.
MATBUS posted the late start announcement on Facebook and Twitter, and provided it to local media organizations. Unfortunately, due to an internal miscommunication, the information was not posted on MATBUS.com or sent out by Rider Alert until after 10 p.m. We apologize for the inconvenience and confusion this may have caused.
Our Commitment to Riders
We appreciate your continued ridership, and we will continue to do our best to serve your needs in the future. We are redoubling our efforts to provide more timely service announcements through MATBUS.com, Facebook, Twitter, Rider Alerts, media release and the MATBUS app.