Message from the Council Chair

Good news on the safety and security front on transit in our region: Both riders and operators are feeling safer on Metro Transit buses and trains than they did a year ago. A few key factors are driving the change.

Our "whole community" approach to public safety is making a measurable difference. We're not simply enforcing laws and rules—we're connecting riders in need with essential services. As our interim police chief reminds us, transit systems inevitably reflect the chronic conditions present in our communities.

We’ve set up coordinated layers of official presence throughout our network:

• Police officers with dedicated beats proactively address behavioral issues like smoking and vandalism while deterring serious crime.
• Community Service Officers (CSOs) gain valuable experience while pursuing law enforcement degrees.
• Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP) agents promote fare compliance and provide rider assistance.
• Supplemental security personnel serve as additional eyes and ears at strategic locations.
• Downtown Alliance Safety Ambassadors engage with customers at Saint Paul stations.

Our rider survey in December showed more than two-thirds of riders say the presence of police officers and TRIP agents makes them feel safer.

We’re taking additional steps as we continue to implement our Safety & Security Action Plan. We’re establishing partnerships with city and county law enforcement and prosecutors, public health departments, and nonprofits. These partnerships expand our reach and effectiveness at keeping transit a safe and positive experience for everyone.

Our whole community approach, which emphasizes police work as service to the community, is also attracting more officers to the Metro Transit Police Department.  We are seeing more interest in our CSO program than we’ve had in many years.

I’m excited that on June 14 we will launch the new METRO B Line, bringing bus rapid transit service to Selby and Marshall avenues in Saint Paul and Lake Street in Minneapolis. The B Line replaces the decades-old Route 21, one of our busiest bus routes. We will make other service changes on June 14 that will put more buses on the road across our region, advancing the Network Now framework developed with input from riders and partners.

We have much to celebrate, and we’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to all riders and transit workers who make our system possible. If you don't regularly use transit, we invite you to experience the improvements firsthand. We're confident you'll enjoy the ride.

Charlie Zelle, Met Council Chair