The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) honored bus operator Coy Dumas Jr. for his 50 years of service.

A native of Adamsville, Dumas joined MARTA, then known as Atlanta Transit, in 1972 as a bus operator. He has run routes solely in west Atlanta over the years, and currently operates Route 853 out of West Lake Station on the Blue Line. MARTA estimates Dumas has carried 2.8 million passengers since he began operating a bus. He also boasts a spotless driving record, having driven over two million miles without an accident. A mentor to countless operators over five decades, Dumas leads the Mentorship Program out of Perry Bus Facility.

“Mr. Dumas shows a loyalty, commitment, and longevity in his career that is rare indeed,” said MARTA GM/CEO Collie Greenwood. “Anyone who’s driven a bus can tell you it is hard work. Mr. Dumas does it with a smile and a sense of pride that makes his customers and all who cross his path feel uplifted and inspired. I thank him for his incredible dedication and service and celebrate all he’s done for MARTA and for the countless people he’s mentored and customers he’s moved through metro Atlanta over the past 50 years.”

Dumas was honored at the November meeting of the MARTA board and while surrounded by his wife Teresa and many friends and colleagues, was surprised with a bus bearing his image at a celebration held at MARTA headquarters. Digital billboards celebrating Dumas and his 50 years with MARTA will be on display throughout Atlanta for the next month. He also received a special 50-year service award and uniform patch, and a proclamation from the city of Austell, where he works and lives.