Synthesis of Information Related to Transit Practices. Topic SG-21. Examining Delivery Models for Law Enforcement on Public Transit

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. 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.

• Record URL:
  • http://apps.trb.org/cmsfeed/TRBNetProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=5934
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Contract to a Performing Organization has not yet been awarded.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Proposed
• Funding: $75,000.00
• Contract Numbers:

  Project J-07, Topic SG-21

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Transit Cooperative Research Program

  Transportation Research Board
  500 Fifth Street, NW
  Washington, DC    20001

  Federal Transit Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Project Managers:

  Schoby, Jamaal

• Start Date: 20250508
• Expected Completion Date: 0
• Actual Completion Date: 0

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Law enforcement; Police operations; Public transit; Safety and security; Transit riders
• Subject Areas: Law; Public Transportation; Security and Emergencies;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01960821
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Transportation Research Board
• Contract Numbers: Project J-07, Topic SG-21
• Files: TRB, RIP
• Created Date: Jul 16 2025 2:36PM