Increased Patrols, Security Cameras Boost WMATA Safety Program

To ensure the safety and comfort of customers and employees, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is increasing the visibility of Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) officers in stations and incorporating more frequent patrols throughout the system.

As part of the initiative, customers will see special police officers walking trains and buses to provide a sense of security and address illegal activity in real time, while announcements will be made over train intercoms to alert customers officers are on board and actively patrolling.

Leveraging Tech

To supplement this effort, WMATA is also utilizing more than 30,000 cameras on buses, trains, and in stations, making it possible for MTPD to respond to incidents and emergencies faster.

The state-of-the-art cameras provide clear images that are often used by MTPD and other local law enforcement agencies to identify suspects and make arrests.

In 2023, WMATA increased patrols by 70% through partnerships with local law enforcement and special police officers. Additionally, enforcement is up 300% overall, and new faregates in multiple locations have led to a decrease in fare evasion at those stations.

As a result of these combined efforts, the agency has seen a 14% decrease in crime. Meanwhile, ridership on Metrorail has increased 24% year to date and Metrobus ridership is up 15%.

For the Customers

WMATA's approach to improving safety also includes a focus on empathy and collaboration with the communities they serve. With eight crisis intervention specialists on staff and hundreds of community/youth outreach events held each year, MTPD always stands ready to serve the region in an impactful way.

"As ridership increases, we want customers to see our officers and feel confident that we're doing our part to keep them safe,” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Anzallo. “We hope customers will interact with the special police officers during their patrols and develop a rapport that promotes positive community connections."

As WMATA's focus on safety continues to evolve, customers will see additional changes throughout the system. The agency has made lighting in stations brighter, added courtesy stops during late-night hours on Metrobuses to allow customers to get off closer to their destination, improved station signage, and added more prominent safety information.

The authority is also rolling out a safety campaign on social media and digital signs throughout the region to illustrate how these efforts will enhance customer experience and cut down on crime.