NACTO Community,

With concern and uncertainty spreading around the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, we wanted to share the steps we are taking to protect our staff and community, limit risk, and help  #FlattenTheCurve.

First, until COVID-19 is better understood and the risk of contraction reduced, our staff will be working remotely. We acknowledge that many businesses, organizations, and agencies in New York City, where we are based, do not have this option. However, we’re in a position to do so. NACTO’s remote work policy will limit staff exposure, reducing the likelihood of contracting or spreading the virus in the city we call home and the NACTO communities we work in.

Second, NACTO is postponing all in-person events through April 15. While we regret having to delay valuable peer network convenings, site visits, and trainings, we are most concerned with the health and safety of our staff, members, and the general public.

We have experience running virtual events, from webinars to Digital Design Charrettes, and we are actively exploring ways to apply those tools and lessons more broadly, while understanding that not all in-person convenings and interactions can be fully replaced with a remote presence.

We would also like to recognize the many transit agencies across North America working diligently and rigorously to combat the spread of COVID-19. Operating a transit system under standard circumstances is demanding; disinfecting vehicles, fare collection devices, and stations during an outbreak deserves acknowledgement and sincere gratitude. Transit is an essential service in cities, everyday. Thank you to the city and agency staff working to keep our streets and systems safe.

Whether you’re working from home, commuting, or continuing with your regular routine, here are some resources we’ve found that have helped us make sense of the coronavirus and continue with our work. We are by no means epidemiologists, virologists, or work-from-home experts, and so we’d like to hear about resources or information you’ve found helpful as we adjust to new ways of working and connecting.

• COVID-19 explainers: Washington Post, Guardian, New York Times
• Tips for staying productive when working from home: NBC News, PCMag