Federal Warning on Transport Safety
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concerns on Friday that Chicago and Boston might lose federal support if local authorities fail to enhance the safety of their public transit systems.
In a statement, Duffy criticized what he described as a lack of protection for riders and transit workers in these two cities, referencing a string of violent incidents tied to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).
For instance, there was a troubling incident where a 27-year-old CTA employee was assaulted, a 67-year-old woman was pushed away from an MBTA bus, and a fellow passenger was attacked with a belt. These events prompted Duffy’s remarks.
Duffy remarked, “President Trump is concerned about our great cities and the dedicated Americans living there.” He suggested it seems local leadership prioritizes the needs of offenders. But, he pointed out, immediate actions could be taken to improve safety and lessen crime impacting both commuters and transit workers.
Duffy has formally requested that both agencies respond within 14 days. He wants detailed reports outlining actions taken against crime, measures to deter fare evasion, and efforts to ensure cleanliness within their systems.
These reports should also include projected funding sources for safety and security initiatives for 2025 and 2026, particularly from federal entities like the Department of Homeland Security.
Furthermore, Duffy took aim at the cashless bail policies in both cities, claiming these allow repeat offenders to continually jeopardize public safety.
MBTA general manager Philip Eng stated recently that safety is a priority for them, particularly after an incident where an elderly woman was violently pushed from a bus. Eng emphasized that such actions won’t be tolerated, urging riders to report any concerns, even anonymously, using their See Say app.
“The safety of the public is paramount, and we’re proud of the swift actions taken by the MBTA Transit Police following this event,” Eng added. “Citizens deserve a safe transit environment.”
This letter from Duffy marks a continued effort to enhance safety measures, as he had previously sent similar warnings to transit systems in New York and Los Angeles earlier this year.
Last month, the tragic killing of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Irina Zaltoska on a light rail train in North Carolina added another layer to these discussions surrounding transport safety.
As of now, both the CTA and MBTA have not responded to requests for comments on this matter.
