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 amplified since the COVID-19 pandemic. Shifts in travel patterns have reduced traditional peak-period ridership. Agencies are reporting an increased proportion of riders experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges, higher levels of fare evasion, greater use of transit systems by unhoused individuals seeking shelter, and an overall increase in behaviors that violate agency codes of conduct. In response, transit agencies have adopted a range of approaches to address both rider and worker safety. A common theme has been expanded using law enforcement-related strategies. The common models include: (1) dedicated transit police departments; (2) contracted law enforcement services provided by local or regional police departments; and (3) hybrid models that combine sworn law enforcement with contracted security, civilian ambassadors, or other non-sworn personnel. Transit agencies now face the challenge of determining which enforcement approaches are appropriate, effective, and cost-efficient within their operating environments. While each model presents advantages and disadvantages related to budget implications, transparency 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. TCRP has conducted work related to this topic – fare evasion (2022), homelessness on transit systems (2024), customer perceptions of safety and security (2025), and impacts of drug use (2025). However, to date, no TCRP research examined how different law enforcement delivery models are structured, governed, and deployed within transit agencies, nor how these models influence safety, security, and customer and employee experiences. The objective of this synthesis is to document and better understand how public transit agency’s structure, manage, and utilize law enforcement delivery models to support public safety. The synthesis will examine how transit police departments and other enforcement partners deploy resources; how agencies coordinate with law enforcement and non-law enforcement partners; and how different delivery models influence safety outcomes, code-of-conduct enforcement, and rider and workforce experience.

• 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