Flathead County residents can expect changes to local public transportation now through April 13. According to Eagle Transit’s website, these temporary changes are due to a shortage of drivers the department is experiencing amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The changes, according to a press release, include the cancellation of all Eagle Transit Kalispell City and Tri-City Commuter routes, which include the green, red and orange lines and lines between Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls. In addition, Eagle Transit services in Columbia Falls will now be limited to a one day per week service on Tuesday.

However, the press release states that the Whitefish City route and the county’s paratransit and Premium Dial-A-Ride services in Kalispell and Evergreen, including rides to grocery stores during senior shopping hours, will continue “as usual.” Due to the coronavirus outbreak, Eagle Transit will also no longer be collecting fares for any fixed routes still available or for paratransit services.

The transit department is also “working with the Food Bank to assist volunteers to make home deliveries.” These deliveries will occur on Mondays and Thursdays and if one wishes to be added to the delivery list, Eagle Transit asks they contact the Flathead Food Bank at 406-752-3663.

Passengers are encouraged to visit the Eagle Transit website daily for updates information at flathead.mt.gov/eagle/ or call dispatch at 406-758-5728.