SEPTA
SEPTA Transit Police recently reported a 6% reduction in serious crimes in 2025 compared to 2024, including a 33% reduction in gun violence. In addition, Transit Police made strides with stepped-up enforcement of fare evasion and quality of ride offenses.
According to the new quarterly data released on Jan. 15, there were reductions in seven of the eight serious crime categories, including aggravated assaults and thefts. Serious crime dropped across SEPTA’s four largest modes, including the Market-Frankford Line [L], Broad Street Line [B], Bus, and Regional Rail.
Serious crime reached its lowest level since at least 2015, and 2025 marks the second straight year in which totals fell below pre-pandemic levels, according to the report (download below).
“While 2025 was one of the most challenging years in SEPTA’s history, we stayed focused on delivering improvements to the system, especially when it comes to safety,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “Since its peak during the pandemic, crime has continued to decline year after year, thanks to the expansion of the Transit Police force, technology and infrastructure improvements, and other safety and security initiatives.”
Transit Police are continuing to prioritize fare evasion with enforcement up by 48% compared to the previous year, while quality of life enforcement increased by 12%.
To stop fare evasion before it starts, SEPTA says it is on track to install more than 200 full-height fare gates at 14 stations by this summer. SEPTA also has a Surface Transportation Unit dedicated to enforcing fare compliance on buses and trolleys, where entry is not controlled by fare gates.
“With 250 uniformed officers, our Transit Police staffing is at its highest level in over a decade, and another 17 cadets started police academy earlier this month,” said SEPTA Transit Police Chief Charles Lawson. “Our customers see officers as soon as they enter the system, and that increased police presence helps deter people from committing crimes.”
WMATA
With perfect scores across all 17 transit security categories, WMATA has been recognized with the TSA’s Gold Standard Award, “demonstrating a sustained, systemwide commitment to keeping customers and employees safe.” The award recognizes WMATA as a national leader in transit security and emergency preparedness.
“Protecting our customers and employees is at the core of everything we do,” said WMATA General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “We continue to take a proactive and vigilant approach to addressing current and emerging security challenges while working in close coordination with our regional and federal partners.”
In 2025, WMATA achieved the lowest crime rate in its history through increased fare enforcement, more than 30,000 cameras monitoring the system, and MTPD’s collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
“The TSA Gold Standard Award is issued to organizations that have outstanding security programs,” said TSA Assistant Administrator for Surface Operations, Sonya Proctor. “This is the fifth time WMATA is the recipient of this award, a first for any TSA Gold Standard Award winner. We are excited to recognize WMATA for their exemplary efforts in helping secure the traveling public.”
“Metro’s security efforts reflect the dedication of the Metro Transit Police Department and the close collaboration we maintain with TSA and law enforcement agencies at all levels. MTPD works with our local and federal partners supporting the safety and security of the National Capital Region,” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Anzallo.
TSA’s Baseline Assessment for Security Enhancement (BASE) is a comprehensive review of security programs “to enhance threat prevention and protection, and boost response preparedness.” Assessment categories included WMATA’s security plan, security training, drills and exercise programs, and public outreach efforts.
Alto
On Jan. 21, 2026, Alto will kick off a three-month long public consultation process for its high-speed rail network with more than 20 open house information sessions in various communities between Toronto and Quebec City, eight virtual sessions, and a dedicated online information platform.
This consultation process also includes a dedicated Indigenous consultation that has already begun, “supporting Alto’s commitment to building respectful relationships with Indigenous communities along the corridor.” Significant progress has already been made through early engagement efforts, including co-designed tools, technical briefings, and collaboration agreements.
The launch of public consultations, Alto says, marks a concrete step forward in the project’s development and pre-construction phase. “Input gathered will help inform the selection of the rail network alignment and station locations, while guiding efforts to minimize impacts, promote inclusivity, and strengthen local benefits.”
The conversations initiated through these public consultations will continue as Alto advances the project in partnership with Indigenous communities, municipalities, and public institutions. “From design and environmental studies to construction and long-term operations, each step will be underpinned by a commitment to reconciliation, sustainability, and lasting community benefits. These efforts will consider the diverse realities of both rural and urban communities, including landowners and farmers,” Alto said.
“Public engagement is a cornerstone of the Alto project,” said Alto President and CEO Martin Imbleau. “Through broad consultations with Canadians, including meaningful dialogue with Indigenous communities, we will ensure that every voice is heard in shaping the future of transportation. By working collaboratively, we will build a rail network that reflects shared priorities, respects Indigenous rights and knowledge, and delivers lasting benefits for generations to come.”
