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Transit systems play a vital role in the economic and cultural vitality of our communities, and require a robust, complex and often costly infrastructure. It’s no surprise that as one of our most accessible and important critical infrastructure assets, security for these systems is essential. Protecting ridership, employees and physical assets requires special training, an understanding of the unique aspects of transit security, and a certain level of creativity balanced with the reality of limited funds. At the end of the day, if community members don't feel safe, they will not ride public transportation.
There are several models for securing transit systems. Those include contracts with law enforcement agencies; hybrid programs utilizing law enforcement and contract security officers; and completely contracted models encompassing security professionals and commissioned special police officers. Each model requires a customized approach, but all have one thing in common: the need to balance security and customer service.
Security professionals and special police officers perform a variety of duties for transit agencies from fare enforcement and securing critical infrastructure such as rail yards and revenue centers; to patrolling stations, parking lots and trains; and riding buses to enforce system rules and provide operator security. Security personnel also staff Security Operations and Dispatch Centers; perform crowd control at multimodal facilities; and enforce rules regarding panhandling, property damage and illegal vendors and solicitation.
Perhaps the most critical element in transit security success is the interaction with riders. Security officers must be an accessible resource, assisting the ridership with directions, details about how to ride the system, and even instructions for purchasing and paying the fare. The security team is instrumental in delivering a safe, secure and positive experience.
These highly trained professionals, many of whom are former law enforcement, military or correction officers, fit seamlessly into the fabric of the transit system, and serve and protect their community. Other than bus operators, ticket agents and train conductors, transit security officers may be the only individuals that riders interact with regularly. They are the custodians of the transit system and its brand.
Learn more in this case study: Security Strengthens Message that Public Transportation is Safe.
About the Author
Charles Bohnenberger is Vice President of Government Services Business Development for Allied Universal. He is a former senior advisor to Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge.
