The choice to halt public transit isn't sitting well with Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky.
Mayor Drew Dilkens announced Transit Windsor will temporarily cease operations at the end of the day Sunday; it's part of the city's ongoing response to COVID-19.
The city previously had riders entering and exiting from the rear of buses and practiced physical distance to keep what was deemed an essential service going.
According to the city, Thursday's announcement is the latest precautionary measure to protect the public and Transit Windsor staff.
Gretzky says transit is an essential service used by the most vulnerable members of society.
The New Democrat says the city should be lobbying for the tools to make buses safer.
"What we really need is the mayor and council to join us in a push for the province to get the extra funding that the municipality needs in order to be able to take those extra precautions during this time," she says.
She says transit is a lifeline for those who can't drive or afford a car.
"There are some real access and equity concerns that I have around the decision to shut the buses down, but even more to that, is the amount of notice people have been given" says Gretzky.
Gretzky says many seniors aren't familiar with doing things online and they're going to have a real problem in the coming weeks.
"Old Age Security Cheques are about to come out, CPP [Canadian Pension Plan cheques], they rely on getting to the bank to those cheques in to get them through the month," she says.
As heard on AM800 News, the union representing Transit Windsor workers has also taken issue with the decision.
The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 616 says the union was not advised about the move until 30 minutes before the announcement was made.
Operations will be suspended until least April 13.
— with files from AM800's Kristylee Varley