Don’t Have a Face Mask? SEPTA Has You Covered.

“Masks will be metered and replenished throughout the day to ensure that supplies last as long as possible,” said a SEPTA spokesperson.

Starting Wednesday, SEPTA will be offering surgical masks to Philadelphia riders to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Masks will be available on the Market-Frankford Line, the Broad Street Line, and at other major transit stations like 69th Street and 15th Street. 

The initiative by the transit authority will be temporary as there is a limited quantity of masks to give riders. 

“Masks will be metered and replenished throughout the day to ensure that supplies last as long as possible,” a SEPTA spokesperson told 3CBS Philly. “When our supply is depleted we will no longer be able to provide masks to the public.”

RELATED: Wolf: All Pennsylvanians Should Wear Masks to Keep Essential Workers Safe

In recent days there has been considerable confusion over whether or not riders must wear face coverings while using public transportation after a Philadelphia man was pulled off a bus by police officers for not wearing a mask. Currently, SEPTA is “urging” riders to wear masks when they use public transportation, but the transit agency told Philadelphia Magazine that “those who refuse will not be barred entry to the system.” 

In a statement, SEPTA explained that the use of personal protective equipment is to protect both the riders and their employees. At least three SEPTA employees have died from the virus.