Houston's Metro Police Department is taking significant steps to enhance public safety and improve transit services, as highlighted in a recent Public Safety Committee meeting. Chief Ben Tin emphasized the department's commitment to ensuring a safe, clean, and reliable transit system, which is crucial for building community trust.

Over the past year and a half, Metro has focused on rebuilding public confidence in its services. The department has reported a 5% increase in ridership, reaching approximately 75 million riders annually, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This growth is attributed to improvements in service frequency and the introduction of new buses and facilities.

Chief Tin outlined plans for decentralizing police operations to enhance response times and visibility across the vast 1,300 square miles served by Metro. The department aims to establish additional satellite substations in strategic locations, allowing officers to respond more quickly to incidents. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to leverage partnerships with local law enforcement and other agencies to bolster safety measures.

The meeting also addressed ongoing improvements in accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities, and the overall cleanliness of transit facilities. These enhancements are expected to further increase ridership and community satisfaction.

As Metro continues to invest in its infrastructure and safety measures, the focus remains on creating a transit system that is not only efficient but also perceived as safe and welcoming by all users. The department's proactive approach signals a commitment to addressing public safety concerns while adapting to the evolving needs of the community.