Posted by Drew Kerr |
Tuesday, January 31, 2023 5:08:00 AM
On Dec. 24, 2022, sub-zero temperatures wreaked havoc on light rail operations, freezing equipment and preventing trains from pulling out of the Hiawatha Operations & Maintenance Facility. At the same time, several light rail vehicles became disabled.
Rail supervisors who helped navigate those challenges, finding ways to continue providing service as a Vikings home game approached, were recognized on Jan. 23, 2023, by the Metropolitan Council as part of the Awarding Accomplishment program. The supervisors who were recognized are:
- Martin Jensen, above right, who kept trains moving and ensured riders had a warm place to shelter by holding trains.
- John Aliperto, above left, who helped troubleshoot and get two disabled trains back into service.
Also recognized was Train Operator Bill Blair, center. On Nov. 26, 2022, Blair was operating a southbound Blue Line train and observed a driver attempting to go around the gate arms at 38th Street. Knowing a northbound train would have collided with the vehicle if he did not act, Blair blocked the intersection with his train so the car could not proceed.