Moving Durham Region Safely: DRT Safe Driver Awards 2025

Every day, Durham Region Transit (DRT) operators help residents get where they need to go safely and reliably. Whether travelling to work, school, appointments or connections across the region, customers place their trust in DRT every time they board a bus.

That trust is backed by the dedication of more than 400 operators and transit professionals who safely deliver nearly one million customer trips each month. In 2025, DRT operators travelled more than 20 million kilometres, the equivalent of circling the Earth nearly 500 times while safely connecting residents to work, school, appointments and destinations across Durham Region.

In May, DRT celebrated this commitment to safety during the annual Safe Driver Awards presentation at Durham Regional Council. The awards recognize operators who have reached significant safe driving milestones and honour their years of dedication to keeping customers, fellow road users and the community safe.

Among this year's award recipients was Nelson Scott, who was recognized for 36 years of safe driving. Reflecting on his career, he shared:

“It has been a tremendous experience and a great ride. After 36 years with Durham Region Transit, I still enjoy coming to work every day. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had, the people I have worked with and the support that has helped me through every challenge along the way. After 36 years of safe driving, I am honoured to receive this recognition and hope to continue doing what I love for a little while longer.”  – Nelson Scott, winner of the 2025 Safety Driver Awards

The Safe Driver Awards are an important tradition at DRT, recognizing the professionalism, skill and responsibility demonstrated by operators every day. Their commitment helps ensure customers can travel throughout Durham Region with confidence.

DRT experienced approximately one preventable collision for every 217,000 kilometres travelled, representing 13 per cent improvement compared to 2024 and highlighting the strong safety culture that guides daily operations across the transit system.

Anthony Pezzetti, Deputy General Manager of Operations, emphasized the importance of safety across every aspect of DRT's service delivery.

“Every year, we recognize the employees who help make our transit system safe.  Safety is critical to Durham Region Transit, our customers and road users.  I want to thank each and every operator for their commitment to keeping our transit system running smoothly while prioritizing the safety of our customers. I also want to recognize our Operations team for their ongoing efforts to ensure safety remains at the forefront of everything we do.”  

Safety is more than a workplace requirement, it is a personal commitment to the customers and communities they serve every day.

“People place their trust in you every time you’re on the road, and with that comes a responsibility to act safely and responsibly.” - Justin, DRT Operator.

“I drive safely so people can make their connections and arrive at work and appointments on time.” - Brody, DRT Operator.