Norwalk Transit to adopt crowdsourced incident-reporting app; council approves one-year subscription

The Norwalk City Council approved a one-year subscription agreement with E Alerts Corporation for a crowdsourced incident-reporting mobile app to support Norwalk Transit System operations, staff said.

Transit staff described the app (branded as a See Something, Say Something-style platform) as a passenger-facing tool to report assaults, disruptive behavior, suspected human trafficking, theft, unattended packages, vandalism and other categories. Presenting staff said the platform allows users to submit photos, mark the bus location via AVL/CAD integration, and optionally submit reports anonymously. "This will assist dispatch in notifying public safety, law enforcement of potential threats to bus operators and passengers," the presenter said.

Staff said national transit data show an increase in assaults and disruptive incidents since the COVID period, and Norwalk Transit has experienced incidents that prompted collaboration with public‑safety partners. The city will launch a marketing campaign that may include bus cards, social media, shelter panels and outreach to partners such as local colleges to encourage riders to download and use the app.

Staff presented a one‑year subscription cost that will be included in the proposed FY 2025–26 Department of Transportation budget; staff also said there is no impact to the general fund. Councilmembers asked for reporting back on usage statistics after launch (six months to one year) and discussed the possibility of a multiyear purchase if the first year proves successful. The council voted aye (Ramirez, Valencia, Vice Mayor Perez and Mayor Ayala) to approve the subscription and authorized the city manager to execute the contract and budgeted amendments.