Meet Renee Garrison, METRO Streetcar Operator

METRO Streetcar’s 20th Anniversary is a special milestone for many, including one streetcar operator who also marked her own milestone earlier this year. Renee Garrison joined METRO in 2009 and celebrated 15 years serving as a streetcar operator in June, making her METRO’s most tenured streetcar operator.

Though she had never considered a career as a streetcar operator, Garrison believes the job found her after she was referred to the position by a former coworker.

“Not very many people can say they drive a trolley for a living,” she acknowledged. “It’s a pretty unique job.”

She recognizes that part of what makes the streetcar unique is it isn’t just a form of transportation; it’s also entertaining and educational for riders.

In her time as an operator, she noted the substantial impact she has seen the streetcar have on the community.

“It has brought economic development, growth, and encouraged interaction between residents,” she stated.

The most rewarding part for her, though, is seeing the smiles and joy it brings to riders.

“It makes them happy,” she said.

She mentioned one rider in particular, a young boy who has been riding with her for seven years. She recalled times she allowed him to help her by carrying the brake handle to the other end of the streetcar or turning the seats when changing ends and letting him watch her pole the streetcar – simply because it made him happy.

While rewarding, operating a streetcar for more than 15 years is no easy accomplishment. The job is complex, mentally challenging and has its physical demands, she explained. There have been many changes to the role of a streetcar operator in the history of the system, which Garrison said she continuously adapts to by being resilient.

She also expressed her fascination for everything she has learned about the streetcar system in the past 15 years and still continues to learn.

As for the next 20 years of METRO Streetcar, Garrison looks forward to the vehicles being refurbished, ensuring they remain running smoothly and keep riders smiling.