In a bid to enhance passenger security, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is charting a new course.
The CTA has announced the rollout of a fresh safety initiative, prompted by directives from the Trump administration. This move emphasizes bolstering security measures to avoid the risk of losing federal funding.
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A key component of the plan involves the transition from employing unarmed security personnel to increasing the presence of sworn police officers.
As part of this strategy, the CTA will lay off 159 unarmed security guards, redirecting efforts towards deploying more police officers to ensure the safety of commuters.
Commuter Terry Angsten expressed support for the initiative, stating, “I welcome it. I feel for those losing their jobs, but it’s a change that seems necessary.”
This decision follows a mandate from the Trump administration, which came on the heels of several high-profile incidents on the transit network.
“I think it’s great,” rider Jenny Hohmeier said. “It would make me feel much safer.”
“I love it<” rider Casey W. said. “More police to protect us and all that stuff I love it.”
The new security plan includes a 75% increase in policing hours and more patrolling from both the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Sheriff’s Office, something riders said they welcome.
“The current news cycle has indicated that there is a need for armed officers or, I’m a dog lover, so I think the canines are the best defense,” Angsten said.
The CTA said it’s strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives.
The funding that was allocated to unarmed security guards will now be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe.
“Safety is our top priority and the work that we have continued to do to make sure that our ridership can experience safety, it is why we are making these necessary investments,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said.
The new plan also includes expanding the CTA’s mental health outreach to connect people with social services and housing.
The CTA released a statement, saying the funding will instead be directed to sworn police officers and other security resources.
“The CTA is strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives. Funding previously allocated to unarmed security guards will instead be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other security resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe,” the CTA said.
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