Recognizing Transit Public Safety Month
Last month, CapMetro and our community experienced a tragic first: a senseless act of violence onboard a bus resulted in the loss of our customer, Akshay Gupta’s, life. We are heartbroken at this loss and angry at the fear and grief this incident sparked.
I have spoken with my fellow transit leaders and my peers from other public agencies, and I know safety is an issue across transit systems and public spaces. Let me be absolutely clear: this should never happen on public transportation. Not in Austin. Not anywhere.
In the weeks since this incident, CapMetro and our service providers have also heard more from frontline team members about their real and valid concerns when they come to work each day. These folks are our backbone – and they deserve to feel safe and appreciated while they do their job and support this community.
In this moment of tragedy, my team and I have been pushed to reflect on what we’re doing to meet the safety and security expectations of our customers and team members, and what we could do better. We are driven to continue acting, and, frankly, do more.
My team and I have identified key short-term actions we believe will make a significant difference in both the real and perceived safety and security of our transit system. Because it’s National Safety Month, you’ll be hearing more from me in the coming weeks about the specific actions we are taking. For now, I’m going to share a big piece of that:
Introducing CapMetro Transit Police
In June 2025, we will have our first CapMetro Transit Police Officers on the transit system, and I’m proud to announce that our CapMetro Transit Police Department officially begins operations this month. This effort has been a long time coming and will complete our reimagined approach to public safety that includes sworn personnel, non-sworn ambassadors, and social workers, all focused solely on the safety and security of the transit system. You’ll start seeing our specially trained transit police officers on our buses and trains, providing a visible security presence and rapid response capability throughout our system.
We will have 10 officers to start, and I have already authorized the team to continue their recruiting efforts until we reach 20 officers in support of this priority. Our transit police officers have undergone extensive training in de-escalation techniques, mental health crisis intervention, and the unique challenges of public transportation environments. They’re not just law enforcement—they’re community partners who understand that safety goes hand-in-hand with accessibility and customer service.
More Than Enforcement
While our transit police represent an important new layer of security, true safety requires a comprehensive approach. Our Public Safety Ambassadors and Community Intervention Specialists continue their vital work every day, focusing on prevention, assistance, and building positive relationships with riders.
We’re also advancing behind-the-scenes improvements: enhanced lighting at stations, improved emergency communication systems, and ongoing safety training for all our operators and staff. Every team member at CapMetro plays a role in keeping our community safe.
Building on Community Partnership
Safety isn’t something we can achieve alone—it requires partnership with our riders, our community, and local organizations. During National Safety Month (and everyday!), I encourage everyone to:
- Speak up: Report safety concerns to our operators or use our mobile app
- Look out for each other: Be aware of fellow passengers who may need assistance
- Stay informed: Follow our safety guidelines and emergency procedures
Looking Ahead
The launch of our Transit Police Department represents a significant investment in our community’s safety, but it’s just one part of our broader safety strategy. We continue working with mental health professionals, community advocates, and local law enforcement to address the root causes of safety challenges in public transit.
We’re also expanding our crisis intervention training and exploring new technologies that can help us respond more effectively to safety concerns. Every decision we make is guided by our commitment to ensuring that every person who uses CapMetro feels safe and welcome.
A Personal Commitment
Having started my career as a CapMetro bus operator thirty years ago, I understand firsthand the importance of feeling safe while doing your job and serving our community. Every employee deserves to work in a secure environment, and every rider deserves to reach their destination safely.
This National Safety Month, we’re not just acknowledging challenges—we’re demonstrating our resolve to meet them head-on with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our community.
Thank you to our dedicated safety teams, our patient riders, and our entire CapMetro family for working together to build a transit system that serves everyone safely and effectively.
Together, we’re moving Austin forward—safely.
Dottie Watkins
President & CEO
Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority
Do you have a safety or security issue on CapMetro service? Call 911 for emergencies. For all non-emergencies and if you see something dangerous at our facilities or on our services, please call the GO Line at 512-474-1200. Visit www.capmetro.org/safety to learn more.
