March 18
Transit Driver Appreciation Day
An appreciation day on March 18 recognizing public transit drivers who safely transport passengers, handle challenging conditions, and provide daily customer service.
Hans Gerwitz and Shannon Thomas
Individual Initiative
Seattle residents Hans Gerwitz and Shannon Thomas proposed Bus Driver Appreciation Day in a February 2009 blog post, selecting March 18 as the anniversary of the first public bus service in Paris in 1662. The event was renamed in 2014 to include all transit operators.
Introduction
Let's show our appreciation for transit drivers on Transit Driver Appreciation Day, March 18! This day was created to recognize the hard work and dedication of the people who drive public transportation systems around the world. From buses to trains and even ferries, these drivers help us get from point A to point B safely each and every day. They are always there when we need them – rain or shine – so let's take a moment on this special day to thank them for their service.
Transit Driver Appreciation Day Timeline
How to Celebrate Transit Driver Appreciation Day
1
Send a thank-you card
Take the time to write a thank-you card and mail it to a transit driver in your area. Let them know that you appreciate their hard work and dedication.
2
Give out treats
Pack up some treats such as cookies, candy, or snacks and hand them out to transit drivers on their routes. It's a small way to show them that you care and appreciate them.
3
Make a donation
Donate to a transit driver appreciation fund or charity of your choice. This is an easy way to show your appreciation for transit drivers.
4
Organize an event
Organize an event such as a potluck, picnic, or BBQ for local transit drivers in your area. Invite everyone in the community to come out and show their support.
5
Write a letter
Write a letter to your local newspaper or radio station praising the hard work of transit drivers in your area. This is a great way to spread the word about Transit Driver Appreciation Day.
Why Transit Driver Appreciation Day is Important
Transit drivers are essential frontline workers
Transit drivers are an essential frontline workforce, providing a critical service to the public. By being on the roads, they are helping to keep people safe by getting them from point A to point B with as little delay as possible. They often operate under especially trying circumstances and deserve our recognition.
Great customer service
In addition to driving safely, transit drivers go out of their way to provide excellent customer service. Most buses and other modes of transportation have signage that remind customers to be respectful of drivers and follow safety protocols, but drivers also put a lot of effort into creating a pleasant travel experience for passengers.
Transit drivers help reduce traffic congestion
Finally, transit drivers play an important role in reducing traffic congestion. When more people take public transit instead of their own vehicles, it helps keep roads less crowded and reduces emissions from cars. This is another example of how transit drivers help make our cities cleaner and greener!
Holiday Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Saturday | |
| 2024 | Monday | |
| 2025 | Tuesday | |
| 2026 | Wednesday | |
| 2027 | Thursday |
