TriMet ups security, fare enforcement

TriMet is planning measures to increase the security presence on the transit system.

“We are always vigilant, looking for how we can improve security and increase the safety on our system for our riders and operators,” said TriMet Safety and Security Executive Harry Saporta.

A new K-9 team was certified to join the TriMet Transit Police Division, bringing the force to 62 officers including four full-time K-9 explosives teams.

Additionally, six new fare enforcers start work, joining two others hired earlier this year, which brings the fare enforcement team to the full-time equivalent of 26.

By the end of 2012, all TriMet buses on the road will have security cameras.

 TriMet also increased the number of MAX platforms with cameras and the overall number of cameras on some platforms. There are now more than 820 cameras on platforms system-wide with all MAX platforms to have cameras by the end of 2013. All MAX trains have security cameras.

In July 2011, TriMet hired six additional fare enforcers and moved to fare enforcement over education. In the first full year of the focus on enforcement, citations rose 84% and warnings dropped 55%.

“This shift to enforcement has shown some real results. With more people buying fares, it’s bringing in more revenue and it increases the safety and security presence on the system” said TriMet Operations Executive Director Shelly Lomax. “We are now seeing citations dropping as riders have realized it’s better to follow the rules than pay a fine.”

Riders without a valid fare face a $175 citation and possible exclusion from the system on the first offense.