This month, UTA bus operator Dale Brady will celebrate his 47th year with the Utah Transit Authority. Not only that, but he was recently recognized by UTA and West Jordan City for achieving 4 million accident-free miles behind the wheel. The West Jordan resident might be the only bus operator in the country to reach this milestone.

“We’re extremely proud as an organization to have one of our team members achieve this impressive milestone, 4 million miles without an accident, which is possibly unmatched nationally,” Carlton Christensen said, chair of the UTA Board of Trustees. “This reflects the quality of all our operators and their commitment to the safety of our riders and the public we serve.”

While Brady doesn’t necessarily like the spotlight, he has high praise for his colleagues who have also driven millions of miles. His friend and fellow bus driver, Art LeFevre, was on course to also receive the 4-million-mile safety award, but LeFevre passed away in July 2022. Brady drove extra miles to make up for the miles LeFevre couldn’t drive. Although LeFevre had passed away, he and Brady received the award together. 

“Art was closer than I was, he would have gotten there first if his health had not declined,” Brady said. “I don’t like to toot my own horn so much, it’s just driving.” 

Brady’s tenure as a bus operator has spanned almost all of UTA’s 51-year history. Starting as a 22-year-old in 1976, Brady credits his wife and coworkers for their support in allowing him to accomplish the 4-million-miles goal. He said when he’s up at 3 a.m. to start his shift, his wife, Cheryl, is also awake, helping him get ready for the day. 

In Brady’s experience, he said it takes about 12 years to drive 1 million miles. He’s not ready to commit to the 5-million-mile goal and is thinking about retiring in June. 

“I chose a good company to work for,” Brady said. “I’ve driven for a long time, and it’s provided the essentials for my family.”

UTA Executive Director Jay Fox said Brady’s achievement isn’t just unique to Utah, but also the United States, and likely, “the galaxy.” He thanked Brady for safely moving Utah residents and visitors with care and pride.