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Released: 9/10/2025 

DRPA Chairman James Schultz and Commissioner Pat Deon Thank Custodial Teams for Improving Daily Commutes

Overnight and daytime crews recognized for keeping PATCO’s stations and trains cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for 5.6 million annual riders.

The PATCO riders are seeing the difference thanks to the dedication of the Authority’s custodial teams.

On Wednesday, September 10, at 6:00 a.m., Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) and Port Authority Transit Corporation (PATCO) Board Chairman James D. Schultz and Commissioner Pat Deon met with PATCO employees at the end of their overnight shift to thank them for their hard work in cleaning and refreshing stations. The overnight custodial team works from 2:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., tackling deep-cleaning tasks that are challenging to compete during the daytime hours.

During the meeting, DRPA and PATCO leaders connected with the overnight crews, who have been leading recent deep-cleaning efforts during service closures- power-washing, scrubbing, and resetting stations. They also emphasized their appreciation for all custodial teams- day, evening, and weekend alike- whose work across every shift keeps the system cleaner and more welcoming for riders.

The weekday overnight station closures have allowed crews to:

  • Power-wash stations and concourses for a brighter, refreshed look each morning
  • Scrub stairways and entrances in high-traffic areas
  • Clean hard-to-reach spots that aren’t accessible during the day
  • Reset stations overnight so mornings start clean for the new day


Chairman Schultz emphasized how important it is to recognize the commitment of the custodial teams whose overnight efforts are creating a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for PATCO riders. Commissioner Deon echoed that appreciation, noting the positive impact the work is having for the more than 5.6 million riders who rely on PATCO each year.

DRPA Chief Executive Officer John T. Hanson also addressed the workers during the visit.

“You’re making a difference. Thank you for making a difference,” Hanson told PATCO maintenance workers at the Lindenwold Maintenance Facility early Wednesday morning. He thanked them for their dedication to cleaning stations and trains.

The event provided an opportunity for DRPA and PATCO leadership to personally thank the front-line custodial employees whose efforts are improving the daily travel experience across PATCO.

 
     
 

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