Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — If you’ve ever taken the Route 36 trolley through Southwest Philadelphia, you’ve probably heard about Tracy’s Trolley.
Tracy Holmes-Williams, a 26-year SEPTA veteran and dedicated trolley operator, works for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, which serves about 750,000 customers daily.
However, Tracy goes beyond just operating the trolley; she aims to bring some joy into her passengers’ day. To achieve this, she places motivational placards, notes, and messages inside the trolley to spread positivity.
“As frontline workers, we are the first point of contact for passengers as we approach them on the street. I strive to be the reason they smile,” Tracy explains.
“I put the positive quotes up there to inspire people because you never know what kind of day they’re having. It’s just motivation. I just try to make everybody feel good.”
She even sends heart signals to her co-workers on passing trolleys. “I don’t know what kind of day they’re having!”
Tracy spends extra time decorating the trolley with uplifting messages like “Have a wonderful day!” and “Smile, and the whole world smiles with you.”
She also incorporates references to the Eagles and Phillies, adding a touch of Philadelphia pride to her decorations. No matter what kind of day her riders are having, she wants to send a positive message.
Beyond riding the rails of Philadelphia, she and her husband are avid roller coaster enthusiasts who travel to amusement parks to ride them!
“Your energy and attitude determine what kind of day you’ll have. So keep those positive vibes, stay smiling, and you’ll be alright.”
She says hearing customers thank her for the messages makes her feel proud, and seeing happy riders makes the journey easier for everyone.
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