INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — Editor's Note: The above video is from previous coverage of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) has announced its COVID-19 vaccine and testing policy for the upcoming North Pole Adventure™ ride.
Guests 12 and older will be required to present proof that they are fully vaccinated, or provide a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of their scheduled ride.
CVSR says that upon arrival at the station for their scheduled departure, riders will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated or negative COVID-19 test. Those who cannot provide proper proof of their vaccination or negative test will not be allowed entry onto the train.
Additionally, all volunteers and staff on the train will be required to be fully vaccinated or show a negative COVID-19 test before boarding.
“Many like organizations and venues are implementing similar protocols,” said CVSR President and CEO Joe Mazur in a statement. “It comes down to doing our part to keep our patrons, volunteers and staff safe.”
Last year, CVSR had to cancel its annual Polar Express Christmas train due to the rise in COVID-19 cases to keep the community safe. In the meantime, CVSR made the decision to replace Polar Express with a new experience. The North Pole Adventure™ will take riders on a brand-new quest to write and hand-deliver letters addressed to Santa, to the North Pole's Postmaster.
CVSR's COVID-19 vaccination and test policy will take effect beginning November 5 and includes North Pole Adventure™ and the Veterans Day Train Ride on November 11. The policy will not impact any of CVSR’s programs or events before this date.
Additionally, CVSR falls under the Transportation Security Administration (TSA); therefore, guests, volunteers and staff are required to wear masks at all boarding stations, in depots, and aboard the train at all times except when eating or drinking, replacing the mask between sips and bites. These restrictions will remain in place indefinitely and are subject to change with current public health conditions and as guidance is reevaluated.
“This is about the health and safety of our community and trying to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” Mazur added. “This decision ensures we can safely operate and provide a memorable and safe experience for all our guests.”
Tickets for North Pole Adventure™ will go on sale to CVSR Members on September 8 at 9 a.m. and to the public October 5 at 9 a.m. For more information on North Pole Adventure™ visit CVSR.org/npa-info
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