ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - An initiative has been launched which is designed to promote health and safety at the Greater Rochester International Airport.
The initiative is called “ReadySetROC,“ and county officials say Rochester's airport is following the guidance provided by the Monroe County Department of Health and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Andy Moore is Airport Director.
"As people decide that it’s safe to travel, they’ve got to make that personal decision. And that’s why we’re rolling out the initiatives that we have today, showing how the airport is committed to a clean, sterile, sanitized safe environment," he said.
As a result, Moore says, there will be more frequent and thorough cleaning of high-touch areas throughout the facility, free hand sanitizing stations, social distancing floor decals, and mandatory wearing of face masks by employees in public spaces.
Technology called ROCView is designed to reduce crowding at passenger boarding gates.
"If you don't want to go down to your gate and wait with the other passengers, you have the capability on your smart phone, tablet, laptop, to pull up your gate,” he said. So you could be sitting right here in the food court and see what's going on at your gate live."
In addition, the airport is using signage, overhead announcements, social media and other communication methods to educate employees and passengers about the safety initiatives as air travel picks up.
Moore says since the pandemic started, the airport has focused on providing a sanitized, disinfected environment.
He adds he’s not afraid to fly right now, and every airline has its own policies, so he’s encouraging potential travelers to check with that airline to see what their sanitation and cleaning policies are.
Passengers with any questions about policies and procedures should contact the Transportation Safety Administration.
Moore says travelers should plan ahead, particularly under the current conditions.
Video by WXXI photojournalist Max Schulte: