Amtrak-Surfliner Says 'Face Masks For All' Donates Uneaten Snacks

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA —Starting this week, Amtrak and Pacific Surfliner passengers must wear face masks while traveling to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Also, thousands of snacks riders enjoyed in first class that are in danger of expiring are being donated, they announced, Wednesday.

Amtrak customers must wear face masks over the nose and mouth in stations and when riding on trains and transit buses, the rail company announced. Fewer riders have made the decision to board trains, and snacks for passengers are nearing their expiration date.

These are just a few changes during changing times. Passengers will see that Amtrak workers have made social distance accommodations on trains as well as at stations, and are conducting enhanced cleaning of touch points on the trains. Sales have been limited to 50 percent of capacity, they say. With fewer riders, the agency that oversees the Pacific Surfliner route announced Wednesday it is donating the snack packs to local food banks and homeless shelters.

The Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency, or LOSSAN, donated more than 50,000 of the snack packs to agencies throughout the southland, Tuesday.

The snack packs are typically served free to Business Class passengers on the Pacific Surfliner trains, but given the drop in ridership, the packs are currently being handed out to all ticketed passengers. The packs include turkey jerky, crackers, cheese spread, trail mix and other items.

"We are committed to providing the communities we serve with essential services during a time when people need them most," Al Murray, chairman of LOSSAN, said in a statement. "Additionally, donating surplus food reduces waste and helps those in need during these unprecedented times."

Meanwhile, riders of the rails can rest assured that safety of Amtrak's customers and employees is their top priority, with the added measures of face coverings while on board trains.

"Requiring a facial covering is one more way we can protect everyone, Amtrak President and CEO Bill Flynn said in a statement. "Amtrak continues to operate as an essential service for those who must travel during the public health crisis. Our services will be even more critical as our nation recovers."

Amtrak has offered a few exceptions, though. Masks can be removed when customers are eating in designated areas, in their private rooms, or with a travel partner in their own pair of seats.

Young children also don't have to wear face masks.

Amtrak and Pacific Surfliner trains are running on reduced schedules while the demand is lower, they say.

In Orange County, stations are located in: San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Irvine, Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Fullerton.

Find other Amtrak stations near you here.