John Eligon took the ride. Along with a photographer. For the NY Times. Some bits from his ride.
Rochelle Brown was the driver. Even though the mayor had announced masks would be available, there were no masks for passengers. A manager had told her that riders were not required to wear them. “it should be mandatory” she said. All this for $19.13 an hour plus a promise of $800 per month hazard pay. But, she says, none of the recognition received by the police, none of the applause received by EMTs and other medical workers.
Paris Banks was a careful rider. She sprayed her seat with Lysol.
Valerie Brown: A fast-food worker who makes chicken schwarma for delivery to door steps.
Demetrius Jordan: A janitor who cleans grocery stores.
Another Rider: A warehouse worker who organizes Amazon orders
A worry: Were there homeless on the bus. At least one.
Another worry for those going to work: Despite a sign urging customers to limit nonessential bus travel, there were riders going to stores, riders going to visit friends and family
None of the people on this bus were working from home. Couldn’t possibly with the jobs they had. These are the people at risk.