MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Skagit Transit has been awarded grants totaling over $7 million to keep the agency running during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the CARES Act, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded the transit agency $5.9 million.

An additional $1.2 million was awarded by the Puget Sound Regional Council.

Skagit Transit Executive Director Dale O’Brien said the funding will help keep passengers and drivers safe by helping with additional cleaning costs,cleaning supplies and personal protection equipment for drivers.

The funds can also cover driver salaries and leave for employees who aren’t working due to service reductions or COVID-19 exposure.

Overall, $538 million was awarded to Puget Sound transit agencies.