In what serves as a reminder of the core values at the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), a recent act of vigilance by one of its operators stands out. Operator Janice Thompson, while running her route, noticed an individual in a precarious situation, wandering unsafely in the middle of the road—a potentially dangerous scenario that could have escalated without intervention. The response from Janice was swift and caring.
On the JTA's official social media channels, an anecdote of the incident was shared, lauding Janice's quick thinking. “When Operator Janice Thompson noticed someone wandering in the middle of the road, she quickly stepped in to help,” the post read. The community was swift in their response, with numerous residents expressing gratitude and appreciation for Thompson's action, which went beyond the standard responsibilities of her job description.
As a result of her commendable deed, Janice has become a subject of praise within local online communities and amongst her peers. The JTA did not miss the opportunity to publicly celebrate her dedication, stating: “Thank you, Janice, for going the extra mile and showing the heart behind the service. Your hard work and commitment to safety truly make a difference every day!” The commendation came accompanied by a hashtag that encapsulates their safety mantra, #SafetyFirst, which is testament to the culture JTA strives to foster amongst its team—an ethos certainly embodied by Janice Thompson on that day.
