Background

Public transit agencies across the United States are working to address security challenges, which have intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel patterns have changed, causing a decline in ridership during traditional “rush hour” periods. In this new environment, agencies have seen a noticeable increase in the presence of riders experiencing mental health or substance use issues, fare evasion, unhoused individuals using the system for shelter, and behaviors that violate established codes of conduct. 

While there are varied approaches to addressing the issues of rider and transit worker safety in the current environment, one through line has been an increase in enforcement related strategies. Transit agencies are now faced with the challenge of determining appropriate, effective, and cost-effective enforcement approaches. Existing models include a dedicated transit police force, leveraging local police services through a contract model, or a hybrid model that includes contracted security and traditional policing services.  Some of these models have also incorporated social service outreach workers or transit ambassadors.

There are advantages and disadvantages to the various approaches that are being utilized across the country from both in terms of budget implications and accountability considerations. Identifying what works and what’s most effective in reversing this trend is essential, while recognizing that the right approach may not be a one-size-fits-all solution.

Synthesis Objective

The objective of this synthesis is to document current practices and delivery models for law enforcement in public transit settings, and to examine jurisdictional challenges and other factors that affect the effective enforcement of crime prevention and code of conduct violations.

Information to be Gathered

At a minimum, the contractor shall gather the following information:

• Academic studies on enforcement delivery models in urban and public contexts, with an emphasis on public transit
• Public reports, presentations, and news articles about enforcement and public transit
• Existing examples of various models of enforcement delivery throughout the United States, including organizational structure and reporting and information sharing processes
• Data on response times, incidents, and other reporting metrics.