TYLER, Texas — Another mask requirement gets the boot. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has moved to allow those in the outdoor areas of public transportation to take off their masks. That includes places like ferries, open-air trolleys, outside of airports and bus stations.
Tyler resident Carlos Williams was waiting for the Green Line Tyler Transit shuttle.
In response to the new guidance he said, “I like it. I enjoy it, myself. And I believe a lot of the other Tylerites will enjoy it also.”
Williams is open to the change, but said his mask will stay within arms reach.
“You know what, I’ll probably still wear the mask. Just being aware of situations, from time to time I’ll probably still wear it,” he said.
Brayden Maynard was just getting off the bus. The news was especially welcomed for him as he has a medical breathing impairment.
“It’s a relief to sit outside with the mask off, and then once I get on the bus, the running AC helps,” he said.
Before the CDC's change in guidance, masks were set to stay required until September 13. Even now, local travel authorities want to stress that this only applies to outdoor areas. If you want to board a Tyler Transit bus for example, the mantra remains: No mask, no entry.
And though not required anymore, the CDC still recommends those who aren’t fully vaccinated to keep their masks on in outdoor transit areas.