Metro Transit leaders face tough questions on safety measures

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for enhanced safety measures on public transit in St. Paul, particularly for students and vulnerable populations. Council members expressed concerns about the experiences of young people using public transportation, emphasizing the urgency for collaboration among the St. Paul Police Department, Metro Transit, and local schools to improve safety.

Councilmember Johnson highlighted the importance of real-time communication between transit officers and city police, noting instances where bystanders felt helpless when reporting incidents. The discussion underscored the necessity for a coordinated response to ensure public safety, especially in light of rising ridership goals for Metro Transit.

Councilmember Yang echoed these sentiments, advocating for a cultural shift in public transit where community expectations for behavior are clearly established and enforced. She called for regular meetings among stakeholders to foster collaboration and share successful intervention strategies.

Metro Transit officials outlined their ongoing efforts, including the Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP), which employs agents trained in de-escalation and community engagement. However, concerns were raised about the limitations of these agents, who are not law enforcement and primarily focus on fare compliance rather than addressing safety issues directly.

The meeting also touched on the jurisdiction of Metro Transit police, which is confined to transit properties, raising questions about their ability to respond effectively to incidents occurring in broader community contexts. Council members urged for clarity on the roles and responsibilities of both transit police and TRIP agents, emphasizing the need for a robust support system that empowers these agents to act decisively in dangerous situations.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus on the need for increased investment in safety measures and personnel, with a focus on ensuring that all agents are adequately trained to handle a variety of situations, including potential drug overdoses and conflicts among riders. The discussions highlighted a collective commitment to improving the safety and experience of public transit users in St. Paul.