Herzog, NCDOT

North Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary Gene Conti recently recognized Herzog Transit Systems, which has contracted with NCDOT’s Rail Division since 2002 to maintain state-owned locomotives, railcars, and other heavy equipment, for its on-the-job safety record. Herzog has exceeded 2,000 injury-free work days at the department’s Rail Division maintenance facilities in Raleigh and Charlotte. Conti also presented NCDOT Rail Division Operations Manager Sharon Mahoney, who has oversight responsibilities in the NCDOT/Herzog partnership, with the Extra Mile Award for her contribution to the 2,000 safe work days.

“Safety is our number one priority,” said Conti. “It’s a real pleasure to partner with an organization that shares our priorities and values. I applaud Herzog Transit Systems for the good work they do in helping keep our workers and citizens safe on North Carolina’s railways.”

In his praise of the employees, Robert J. Smith, President and CEO of Herzog Transit Services Inc., observed, “The company reinforces safety programs and standards with employees, but without their constant effort and attention such a record could never have been achieved. The safety award from NCDOT is an achievement they earned and I am justly proud of them.”

“This is a remarkable achievement for those who work 365 days and nights a year with heavy equipment and tools with much of their work outside dealing with the elements,” said Mahoney. “This exemplifies their commitment to safety. I am proud to be associated with Herzog and its fine employees.”

Mahoney, who lives in Apex, N.C., has been with department for three years following a 34-year career with Amtrak, where she received numerous awards in recognition for her strong commitment to safety and excellence. She plans to retire from NCDOT next month.

Herzog Transit Services, Inc. (HTSI) formed in 1993 and its wholly-owned subsidiary TransitAmerica Services, Inc., formed in 2001, operate and maintain passenger rail services in the U.S. and Canada. HTSI is a privately held company owned by its shareholders who are primarily employees. For commuter, intercity, and light rail systems, Herzog provides train operations, dispatching, maintenance of equipment, and maintenance-of-way and communications and signaling services.