RTD Transit Police Support MARTA’s World Cup Surge

To help manage transit safety during World Cup matches hosted in Atlanta, GA, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) requested support from transit agencies not involved in hosting World Cup events. Regional Transportation District (RTD), out of Denver, CO, answered the call.

The World Cup brings elevated security demands—approximately 500,000 visitors are expected in Atlanta through July 15. RTD’s transit police are assisting with patrols, boosting officer visibility and community safety.

Leaders at RTD and MARTA recognize the power of partnering. “Strong collaboration across transit agencies is essential to ensure a safe and seamless experience for local and international travelers,” said RTD Chief of Police and Emergency Management Steve Martingano. “By working together, we can share best practices, strengthen situational awareness, and improve our overall readiness for large‑scale global events,” he said.

This isn’t the first partnership among the two agencies—nor among the industry. RTD Transit Police previously assisted MARTA during Super Bowl LIII in 2019 and has sent officers to Washington, DC, to assist with patrols during the last five presidential inaugurations.

Transit agencies regularly share best practices in planning for “mega” events. For example, last fall, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, in collaboration with APTA, released a Special Event Transportation – Guidance and Opportunities (SetGo) Playbook. Earlier this year, transit leaders discussed mega event planning and legacy at ATPA’s Mobility Conference.

MARTA Public Information Officer and Police Officer Sacoria Jackson summed up the reasoning behind such partnership: “By supporting one another and sharing our expertise, we create a safer, stronger transit experience.”