ATLANTA, GA — Thousands of MARTA workers will receive a one time $500 "hero" bonus for working during the coronavirus pandemic. The transit agency announced the news during a virtual news conference Friday. Front-line workers such as bus and train operators, police officers and those who are unable to work from home will receive it.

Approximately, 3,566 employees are expected to receive the extra pay, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Although this will cost the transit agency nearly $1.8 million during a time where its budget is tighter due to the pandemic, safety is being put first, CEO Jeffrey Parker said Friday. The bonus, masks, increased sick time and other benefits is the agency's way to help keep both riders and employees safe.

"These employee measures, along with bus crowding mitigation efforts, and forthcoming bus service changes, will help ensure our system remains safe for those who rely on transit to get to work, the doctor or the grocery store," Parker said in the news release. MARTA negotiated the bonuses with the Amalgamated Transit Union, which has said the agency isn't doing enough to protect employees.