EDMONTON -- The Edmonton Transit Service has rolled out a new tool to encourage physical distancing on its buses.

Signs have been posted to block half of the seats on ETS buses, creating space between riders, since April 7..

"So far, we’ve outfitted the majority of our in-service bus fleet with these signs, and we anticipate completing installation next week," and ETS spokesperson told CTV News Edmonton.

LRT passengers are also being asked to stagger their seating, though signs are not being installed on train seats.

"We’re looking into potentially installing window decals on our trains that promote physical distancing and staggered seating," ETS said.

The city has also required all passengers to alight from trains at the end of the line to discourage destinationless passengers.

On April 2, the city announced it was adding more service to the transit system to allow for more distancing. ETS Branch Manager Eddie Robar said at the time that other measures would be added in the coming days.

People are asked to continue to avoid non-essential transit travel.

According to ETS, transit use has decreased by more than 70 per cent during the week. Services were reduced to a Saturday schedule on March 17.

Fares were temporarily suspended for buses, LRT and DATS on March 26.

Operator safety shields have been added to buses, riders are using the rear doors unless they need the ramp and LRT doors now open automatically.