Security Enhancements May Contribute to Drop in Crime for Two Large Agencies

Passengers riding the rails in Philadelphia and San Franscico are experiencing a safer ride due to recent drops in crime. The regional transit agencies that serve the cities report safer conditions that correspond with expanded officer presence and tactics to discourage fare evasion.

SEPTA

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) reported a 6 percent reduction in serious crimes in 2025 compared to 2024. Noting that police staffing is at its highest level in over a decade, SEPTA Transit Police Chief Charles Lawson remarked on how this helps with deterrence: “Our customers see officers as soon as they enter the system, and that increased police presence helps deter people from committing crimes.”

Other security enhancing efforts at SEPTA include installing taller fare gates and enforcing fare compliance where there are no gates, like on buses and trolleys, through a surface transportation unit.

BART

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) reported a 41 percent drop in crime in 2025 compared to 2024. Ridership over the same period increased by more than 5 million trips (2024 also saw a drop in crime amid growing ridership).

BART reported to have doubled officer presence and continues to use crisis intervention specialists, transit ambassadors, fare inspectors, and community service officers. BART Police Chief Kevin Franklin noted the collaborative efforts of these groups: “Safety is about more than enforcement. It’s about presence, partnership, and creating an environment where all riders feel comfortable.”

Like SEPTA, BART installed taller fare gates at 50 stations. The agency is also improving lighting on platforms and parking facilities and maintains surveillance operations for quick response time and holding suspects accountable.

The safety and security efforts are intended to improve safety as well as provide a more welcoming rider experience.