Metro is preparing to distribute 500,000 cloth masks provided by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) next month, according to a statement from the transit agency.
The Federal government will send around 100 million cloth facial coverings to the aviation, transit, and passenger rail transportation sectors for passenger use.
Approximately 86.8 million coverings will be given to airports, and 9.6 million coverings will be given to 458 transit agencies and Amtrak for passenger use.
“This Administration is committed to protecting our people and reopening the economy; distributing these facial coverings will help boost public confidence as we begin to resume our normal lives,” US Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said about the decision.
The federal government’s statement noted that passengers are still responsible for having their own facial covering according to guidance from airlines, airports, transit agencies, and passenger rail authorities. The distributed coverings will be supplemental and their availability at every location is not guaranteed.
“In response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency, DOT has focused on keeping transportation systems safe and operational so America’s economy can come back strong. Response measures have included stakeholder outreach and guidance, expanded federal financial assistance, and regulatory relief,” the statement added.