Outstanding Transit System: Prince George’s County TheBus
TAM’s mission is to strengthen community transportation in Maryland, and we do this with the assistance and cooperation of our members like Prince George’s County TheBus. This isn’t the first time that they have won an award, and it is well deserved once again. In the wake of the pandemic and the lockdown, this system has thrived and continued to progress in many ways that deserve recognition. They have refused to slow down! They’ve expanded the video-based safety program SmartDrive to all transit vehicles, helping to eliminate accidents, save time, and reduce fuel consumption and operational costs. They have also continued to follow extraordinary precautions to prevent the spread of COVID and other diseases that are now a fact of life. This system launched their “Proud to Charge” initiative, with a goal of creating a healthier environment and enhancing access to transit. They have added four electric buses to their fleet, with more on the way. This will give a boost to county residents to enter the blossoming world of sustainability technology maintenance. The county’s plans include moving from diesel buses to zero-emission electric buses, installing a solar powered microgrid system, installing bus chargers at various locations, renovating the existing garage to allow for electric buses and their maintenance, and implementing related skill development and training opportunities .
Driver of the Year: Jaime Holloway, Prince George’s County TheBus
Drivers are truly the most important part of everything we do. Without drivers, there is no public transit, so it is fitting we take this time to honor the most deserving of them. Jaime Holloway is not just another driver. She is a vital part of the community and a lifesaver. She’s been driving for over fourteen years. Jaime’s a native of her county and always has a smile and a good word for all her passengers. She looks out for their safety and well-being. She’s not only a driver, but also a shining example of what community transportation is and how it serves. Jamie was approached by the family of a missing young woman and provided with a photo. Jamie recognized the young woman as an occasional passenger to whom she had offered food and water, so she kept an eye open for her. Later, this driver found the young woman in a station, and alerted both her family and local authorities. The young woman was safely returned to her family and is healing physically and mentally from her ordeal.
November 2022
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