photo by: Journal-World File Photo

In this file photo from Jan. 18, 2016, a Lawrence Transit System bus stops just south of Seventh and Vermont streets.

Starting Wednesday, Lawrence Transit passengers will need to board and exit the bus from the rear door as part of new COVID-19-related precautions.

The City of Lawrence announced the new protocol in a news release Tuesday, saying it is designed to increase social distancing on buses. The release states that using the rear door will allow both bus passengers and drivers to practice social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet away from others at all times. All bus drivers are now wearing cloth facemasks in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.

Passengers will be able to pay their bus fare or show their bus pass to the driver once entering the bus from the rear door. Fare boxes will be moved to the inside entrance of the rear door of the bus. Passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices will still be able to use the front door since ramps and lifts are located at the front door of the buses.

The release also stated that it is important for riders to only travel by bus for essential trips and practice social distancing while on the bus. Examples of essential trips include getting to and from work (if unable to work from home), obtaining necessary supplies or food, and trips for essential medical purposes.