Valley Metro riders have reported notable improvements in security, cleanliness, and rider behavior, according to a recent study of more than 1,100 riders. These enhancements also correspond to a year-over-year drop in rail security incidents by over 50%.  

“The progress we’re seeing reflects the strong partnerships we’ve built with our police departments and the hard work of our teams to ensure that every rider has a positive experience,” said Valley Metro RPTA Board Chair and Tempe Councilmember Jennifer Adams.  

A recent Valley Metro survey found that the vast majority of riders feel safe using the system, citing more visible and professional security officers, cleaner stations, and fewer unsafe situations.

Compared to the 2022 results, riders reported significant improvements across the board, including 81% of riders feeling secure (up from 71% in 2022), 61% seeing more security (was 52%), 82% would recommend Valley Metro (74%), and 78% are satisfied (69%).

“It’s encouraging to have riders tell us they feel safer and more confident using our system,” said Valley Metro Rail Board Chair and Phoenix Councilmember Laura Pastor. “Increased presence of security, partnerships with local law enforcement, and enhanced cleanliness along the system are important factors in increasing ridership and the rider experience.”

Other achievements include:

• Bus and rail ridership in September 2025 increased by 21% (year over year), with 45,000 daily weekday riders.

• The new rail extension into south Phoenix is seeing more than 9,000 riders each weekday, surpassing a projected 8,000 daily riders.

• Metro Parkway station, which opened in January 2024, had 69,000 boardings in September, the second highest in the system. Followed closely by 67,000 boardings at the new end-of-line in south Phoenix at Baseline/Central Ave.  

• Express and RAPID commuter buses are seeing weekday increases of 18%.

“The ease and convenience of light rail is fantastic and is a safer, more efficient mode of transportation. The increased presence of security on the train has been impactful over the last year,” said Alex Coil, Valley Metro rider. “The refresh of light rail cars and overall cleanliness promote a safe environment for all to enjoy.”

According to Valley Metro security data:  

• From FY 2024 to FY 2025, the average rail incident rate dropped by 54%.

• From January to June 2025, the total number of incidents decreased by 75% compared to the same period in 2024.  

Building a Safer Transit Experience for Every Rider

“Our unwavering focus on security is transforming the transit experience for our riders,” said Jessica Mefford-Miller, Valley Metro CEO. “Whether it’s deepening partnerships with law enforcement or prioritizing safety enhancement at our passenger facilities, every effort contributes to a more confident and enjoyable journey for our community.”

Improvements in security reflect continued investments in both personnel and prevention. Field security officers, who patrol stations, trains, and park-and-rides, are now more visible with a 40% increase in presence, representing 45–50 officers on the rail system during peak hours.

Partnerships with local law enforcement add another layer of security presence, including the Phoenix Transit Police, Tempe Police’s extra-duty program, Mesa Police’s bike squad, and Operation Blue Ride, which offers wellness resources to bus riders.  

“Behind this progress are the people who look out for our community,” said Adrian Ruiz, Valley Metro chief, safety and security. “Our police partners, supervisors, customer experience coordinators, alongside our security officers, work together every day to ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all riders. We also rely on our community. If you see something, please say something.”