APTA inducts Jablonski into Hall of Fame

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) earlier this week inducted the late Paul Jablonski into its Hall of Fame.

Jablonski, who was chief executive officer of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (SDMTS) when he died in May at the age of 67, was recognized for his contributions to public transportation over a 40-year career.

The award is APTA's highest honor dedicated to recognize individuals who've had long and distinguished careers in the transportation industry, SDMTS officials said in a press release. 

While at the SDMTS helm, Jablonski oversaw a $660 million project to renew the Trolley light-rail system and helped secure a full-funding grant agreement for a $2.1 billion light-rail extension. SDMTS was also recognized by APTA as the Outstanding Large System of the Year in 2009, and received three APTA Safety Excellence Awards in 2015, 2017 and 2018. 

APTA named Jablonski Outstanding Transportation Manager of the Year in 2014.

Jablonski, who began his career as a bus driver, held many positions throughout the years. He also served on the APTA Executive Committee and chaired the California Transit Association’s Executive Committee, a position he used to lead efforts to restore state funding for California transit agencies after the Great Recession, SDMTS officials said.

APTA’s foundation has set up the Paul Jablonski Scholarship to help students and transit professionals further their education.