New safety director named after MetroRail delay

New safety director named after MetroRail delay

By Joseph M. de Leon Wednesday, 29 April 2009

Six weeks after safety violations forced Capital Metro to reschedule the launch of its new commuter rail line, the line’s private operator has hired a new safety director.

Randall "Randy" Jamieson is the new director of safety, training and regulatory compliance in Austin for Veolia Transportation, the company announced in a press release Tuesday.

On March 20, Capital Metro cancelled the March 28 MetroRail grand opening celebrations for the commuter rail service from Leander to downtown Austin because of alleged safety violations by Veolia workers.

Train services have been delayed indefinitely. Capital Metro promised to present the status of the MetroRail and an action plan by May 15.

“Between now and the launch of service, I will work very closely with all parties to ensure that the remaining infrastructure construction, testing and verification of all systems are achieved in a safe and efficient manner,” Jamieson said, according to the release.

Jamieson monitored compliance with federal railroad safety regulations and led railroad accident investigations for the Texas Department of Transportation.

"Randy brings a keen understanding of the railway industry, strong leadership skills and a passion for achieving safety excellence," said Ron Hartman, executive vice president of Veolia Transportation's Rail Division, according to the release.

Veolia Transportation is the largest private operator of multiple modes of transit in North America, including bus, rail and taxi services. The company employs more than 16,000 workers and operates about 150 contracts in cities, such as Boston, Los Angeles and Miami.