Back in service

The Madison County Senior Shuttle Service Bus returned to service June 30.

Its maiden voyage took about four individuals to Bozeman for medical and shopping needs. The service was suspended a few months ago as people were ordered to stay at home due to COVID-19. Certain safety precautions will be implemented to protect the service’s users, who tend to be individuals with a high risk of contracting a serious case of the coronavirus.

“We do medical runs for any age,” Madison County Senior Shuttle Service Bus driver Al Lingenfelter said.

The shuttle service prioritizes commuting residents who need a ride for medical appointments. But Lingenfelter said people use the bus to get to surrounding cities for different reasons.

“Some just don’t want to drive in the Bozeman traffic,” Lingenfelter said.

Most of Lingenfelter’s passengers are over 65 years old, which according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, puts them in the high-risk population. The Madison County Board of Health approved shuttle services plans for operation June 16. The plan included limiting seating to one person per seat, mandatory masks and frequent surface disinfection.

The seating capacity on the bus was cut in half. It will accommodate up to six passengers to facilitate social distancing requirements. The shuttle rotates its trips with weekly commutes to Bozeman, Butte and Dillon. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided if needed.

“We’ll try to keep the shopping as quick and minimize contact as best we can,” Lingenfelter said.

People have to make reservations for the Madison County Senior Shuttle Service Bus, which departs weekly from Ennis, Sheridan and Harrison.