A3 Montellano, a cashier at a Tucson Chevron, wears a protective mask and gloves. Montellano says aside from regulars, fewer people have been entering the convenience store since the outbreak of the coronavirus. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

Life in the time of coronavirus: changes in transportation and travel

In only weeks, a new normal has emerged for Americans. The coronavirus pandemic has introduced new words and phrases into the national lexicon—like social distancing and flatten the curve. Protective masks and gloves are becoming a familiar sight. Streets, restaurants and schools stand empty.
Transportation and travel have also slowed as Arizonans increasingly self-isolate to avoid spreading or contracting the coronavirus. But, even in the midst of a pandemic, travel continues.
 

Gas prices dropped following nationwide travel restrictions. Prices at some gas stations such as this Tempe Mobil dropped under $2.50 per gallon. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

An airport employee takes a lunch break in an empty sitting area at Sky Harbor. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

An otherwise bustling Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport appears virtually empty on a Friday afternoon. The third busiest airport in the nation has seen a stark reduction in travelers in recent weeks. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

An airport employee wearing a protective mask checks the day’s arrival schedule in Terminal 3. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

Rush hour traffic has nearly vanished on Interstate 10 in Tempe and Phoenix on a Friday evening. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

An airport employee takes a lunch break in an empty sitting area at Sky Harbor. (Monica Spencer/MesaCC Legend)

  • Monica Spencer

    Monica is the photographer and photo editor for The Mesa Legend. A life-long resident of the Phoenix Metro area and a member of the Navajo Nation, she is passionate about showcasing life and politics in the desert Southwest. Monica is also a staff writer for Only in Your State and was previously a contributing writer for The Navajo Post.

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