Lasalle, Leamington bus services also affected

With the temporary suspension of Transit Windsor operations in Windsor beginning Monday, bus service to Lasalle and Leamington will also shut down.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens ordered the temporary suspension of Transit Windsor operations, effective the end of normal operating hours on Sunday, affecting the operation of Lasalle Transit Route 25.

Service will be suspended until at least April 13.

“I use the bus to get to work and to come home from work,” said Phil Parent, a frequent transit rider who lives in Lasalle.

“I have the bicycle but I usually put the bike on the bus and then I ride the difference from Sprucewood to my place,” said Parent. The cancellation of bus services, he said, means he will have to stay home more.

Parent said he’s able to carry groceries on his bike, as he doesn’t own a car. The nearest grocery store is about two kilometres away.

Asked if he was worried about being exposed to the coronavirus while riding the bus, Parent said he feels relatively safe.

“They’ve done a good job … making us stand six feet apart,” he said, adding drivers are isolated and passengers are asked to sit apart as well.

“It’s a pretty safe world all things considered,” Parent said. “And Windsor doesn’t have too many cases, so hopefully (the temporary suspension of service) will do something to minimize the impact.”

Transit Windsor service to Leamington is also being suspended, starting at the end of normal operating hours on Saturday and continuing until at least April 13.

Leamington’s own transit services within that town’s urban area will continue operations until further notice.

Lasalle has also followed other Essex County municipalities in closing all outdoor playground equipment.

The park play structures are closed until further notice. Structures are not sanitized and therefore provide an opportunity for transmission of COVID-19, the municipality said.

Lasalle’s skateboard park at the Vollmer Complex, pickleball courts, tennis courts and basketball courts are also closed.

Parks and trails remain open, however, the public is reminded to use caution in these areas and allow for the recommended social distancing. The public is also advised not to gather in groups or use the pavilions.