• TARTA News

Wardell Palms Jr has spent more than four decades in Toledo.  Most recently, though, he’s been cruising the Glass City as a TARPS driver.

“I’ve seen more of Toledo in the last four years than I knew that was here,”

Wardell Palms Jr. – TARPS driver

As a former employee of the Northwest Ohio Developmental Center, Wardell believes that his 30 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities has given him a greater understanding of  passenger needs – making this job the perfect fit.

“It’s my way of giving back to the community,” he said.

His commitment to TARPS passengers and willingness to go the extra mile is evident. In August, it was his on-time performance that garnered the most attention. Out of dozens of trips, Wardell has had an on-time-performance rate of 96.88%!

“Sometimes you might have to go a little bit out of your way to get to a street that doesn’t have as many red lights, and to me, that’s what makes a big difference,” he said.

When Wardell isn’t in the office, you can find him spending time with his six grandchildren or riding his motorcycle.

Prior to becoming a TARPS driver, Wardell was a former employee of the Northwest Ohio Developmental Center and a maintenance worker at the Army National Guard.

Thanks for all you do Wardell! We are so lucky to have you on our team.