COEUR d’ALENE — Citylink, a main source of free public transportation, continues to operate despite the coronavirus outbreak.

“We’re keeping it the same and getting people where they need to go,” said Chad Ingle, who is in charge of the fixed-route services.

Citylink is an important mode of travel for many to reach work, home or stores. It transports an average of 50,000 passengers a month in Benewah and Kootenai counties. Its reach is extensive as it operates four routes daily. Its network has more than 150 stops and is spread across 200 miles of road.

Ingle said Wednesday that Citylink has received many calls from people asking if services were continuing. He’s glad to be able to tell them yes.

Citylink has ramped up cleaning efforts throughout the day. Employees are disinfecting and sanitizing the buses more often, scrubbing and wiping down all high-touch areas.

Ingle said they have seen a recent decrease in ridership, but nothing major.

There no plans to reduce services unless they are mandated to do so, he said.

Most Citylink buses have seating for about 30 people and bicycle racks. All are fitted with wheelchair lifts.

The service is part of a cooperative agreement between the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Kootenai County and Kootenai Health.