Taking Action on Security

TriMet is adding more police and fare inspections

To enhance the security of the MAX system, TriMet General Manager Fred Hansen has outlined a new security plan that includes:

More police presence on MAX

Transit Police Division officer ranks will increase by 10 percent over the current number.

More security personnel

Wackenhut contracted security personnel have been expanded.

Improved ticket vending machines

Ticket vending machines are being upgraded and new, more reliable machines are replacing older machines at several eastside MAX stations. Tickets will be available at several concessionaires located at major MAX stations.

Strengthening the Code of Conduct

TriMet is expanding its Code of Conduct to better deal with disruptive behavior. Learn more

Better security at station areas

TriMet will improve station areas to increase safety and security. Nearly 700 light bulbs have been replaced for brighter lighting. Floodlights have been added to the NE 82nd Ave and Gresham Central stations and landscaping has been trimmed to improve sightlines. Closed-circuit security cameras are being installed at stations.

Fareless Square

Over the next several months, we will evaluate Fareless Square and address the security issues in the fare-free zone. The future of Fareless Square will be determined by an open, thorough process that involves and engages the public.

Victory Outreach Rider Advocates

Some of the criminal or intimidating behavior on the system is among gang members or potential gang members.

To address some of the root causes, TriMet is partnering with Victory Outreach Community Services, Inc., a community-based Latino youth organization, to ride MAX and work with Latino youth to prevent gang activity. Eight Victory Outreach Advocates will provide information to riders about TriMet in support of customer services, safety and security, as well as providing a physical presence on the transit system to serve as a deterrent for inappropriate, intimidating and illegal conduct related to gang activity. This is similar to work being done by the Rider Advocates in North and Northeast Portland neighborhoods.

This plan builds on Fred Hansen's 6-point security plan released on November 5, 2007, in response to recent criminal activity:

TriMet's Six-Point Security Plan

November 5, 2007

TriMet General Manager Fred Hansen has ordered additional presence and security on the transit system. The improvements are the following:

  1. Convene a safety summit for the light rail system and work with the jurisdictions served by MAX. The goal would be to fully coordinate security-related efforts and ensure that all jurisdictions maximize our limited resources to get the most benefit.
  2. Survey all MAX platforms and transit centers to look for opportunities to increase lighting, improve sightlines, add surveillance cameras and other physical changes to enhance security.
  3. Increase the number of Wackenhut security on the system by 15, bringing the total to 36.
  4. Direct all TriMet personnel to be more visible on vehicles and at platforms while performing their regular duties, whether it is cleaning a platform, servicing a ticket vending machine or just riding the system.
  5. Remove all graffiti at MAX stations and transit centers within 24 hours.
  6. Ensure there are consequences, including jail time, for anyone that commits a crime on TriMet.