RICHMOND, Va. -- Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) will resume its bus schedule days after the city's bus system announced it would suspend all fixed routes due to COVID-19. Earlier this week, the city said it would stop all service, with the exception of emergency paratransit pickups, in an effort to slow the COVID-19 spread.

When the Department of Rail and Public Transportation heard about the suspension, it informed Petersburg leaders that bus service was considered essential and could not be stopped.

"It was clear that we made a mistake, and in the process of making a mistake we have informed our general manager for transit that tomorrow morning at 5 a.m. our services will resume to full capacity," Petersburg Deputy City Manager for Development Lionel Lyons said.

PAT averages about 57,000 passengers per month.

Lyons said that number has decreased as people have stayed home due to COVID-19.

Both the state and federal governments will help PAT offset additional costs and lost revenue.

Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for complete coverage of this important developing story.

COVID-19 Precautions

Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.

COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.

Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:

