January 17 , 2006

TriMet creates new safety & security director position

Hires transit expert with 20 years' experience

TriMet has created a new director of system safety and security position with broad authority and oversight over safety issues, and has appointed Tim Garling to the post.

Garling, who has more than 20 years of transit experience, will be responsible for enhancing security policies, procedures and training under TriMet's comprehensive safety and security program. He will lead and coordinate these efforts among numerous departments, including:

• Rail, bus and LIFT operations
• Transit Police Division, contracted security and Rider Advocates
• System Safety
• TriMet's deputy district attorney contracted through the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office

"This position will address the agency's growing responsibilities and workload for safety and security functions, and I believe Tim can take our security efforts to an even higher level," said Fred Hansen, TriMet general manager.

Garling began working at TriMet in 1997 and is moving into his new safety role from his previous position of managing all TriMet field operations.

Garling also has worked at the New York City Transit Authority for more than 11 years and held several positions, including transportation superintendent in charge of the "N" line, one of New York's 23 subway lines.