New TriMet Phones Offer Direct Line of Communication to Security Staff

A new resource for connecting to TriMet’s 24/7 security hotline is appearing at the agency’s MAX stations: “blue-light security phones.”

The devices are bright red towers with the word “Security” written down the side and blue lights at the top. The phones let people connect immediately with TriMet security staff at the press of a button. The phones are also equipped with cameras, giving TriMet’s security team more views of station areas.

The first phones have been installed at the Rose Quarter and Convention Center MAX stations. TriMet will continue installing the phones in the coming weeks at MAX stations along Interstate 84 between the Rose Quarter area and the Gateway Transit Center.

Despite the widespread use of mobile devices, blue-light security phones continue to demonstrate their value more than 30 years after they were first invented and installed at the University of Chicago. Today, nearly every college campus in the U.S. has them.

Blue-light security phones have been shown to increase overall awareness around security and deterring crimes. After Rice University installed them in 2010, the school reported a decrease in crime, including a 68 percent drop in burglaries.

While mobile phones are portable, they have low or no battery, and in a high-stress situation, it might be easier to push a button. There are also times when cell service drops completely, making blue-light phones another layer of security and communication on the transit system.