Cincinnati Metro celebrates more than 100 operators, mechanics for safety excellence with annual awards

Cincinnati Metro recognized 110 operators and maintenance employees who achieved performance and safety milestones in 2021 at the transit agency’s 49th Annual Safety Awards luncheon.  

Among those recognized were two operators who were inducted into the national “Two Million Mile Club. 

“When you think about all the exciting work we’ve been doing to reinvent Metro over the last two years, none of it would be possible without these individuals’ unwavering commitment to safety,” said Cincinnati Metro CEO and General Manager Darryl Haley. “Their service to their community – especially under these unprecedented circumstances – helps maintain the confidence our riders have in us to get them to their destination safely. It’s truly an inspiration to take pause and recognize.” 

Among those who received recognition July 19 were Vincent Best and Robert Stewart, both of whom last year achieved the feat of driving two million miles over 30 years without a preventable collision. It is a feat achieved by one-tenth of transit operators nationwide, says the agency. 

Cincinnati Metro also honored operator Andrew Rodgers, who has achieved 40 years without a preventable collision. 

Overall, 110 operators and mechanics achieved outstanding safety milestones. Fourteen employees achieved 10 years without a preventable collision within their first 13 years of service; 15 employees reached 10 consecutive years; 23 employees achieved 15 or more years; 16 employees had 20 or more years; three achieved 25 or more years; one employee reached 30 years; and one reached 40 years without a preventable collision or injury. 

As an organization, preventable collisions were down four percent in 2021, while maintenance injuries decreased by 20 percent and passenger injuries decreased by 26 percent.