Operation Transit Safety Security Fall 2009
The City of Phoenix is proud of its expanding mass transit system, which enables thousands of people to move about the valley each day. The system, which is comprised of buses and Light Rail trains, is a safe and efficient way to commute. To promote even further safety and security for the community, the Phoenix Police Department will be conducting Operation Transit Safety-Security from August 17 - 21, 2009. During that time, there will be increased officer presence in the area of Light Rail and bus routes.
A collaboration of officers from areas primarily affected by light rail issues will focus their education efforts on the downtown area by speaking to pedestrians; reminding them to use crosswalks, to stay off light rail tracks and to obey traffic lights. In addition, officers will also be enforcing the laws that affect the safety of all who travel in and around light rail trains and buses. It is important to note that none of the officers participating in the education campaign have been pulled from patrol functions. The concern of the Phoenix Police Department is the safety of the entire community; whether on foot, in a personal vehicle or on public transit.
Since the inception of the Light Rail system, there have been 26 accidents in the City of Phoenix, mostly in the downtown corridor. Virtually all have been due to drivers failing to adhere to light systems. Community members have a responsibility to themselves and those around them to be vigilant in obeying traffic laws; they are designed for your protection, not to inconvenience you. Most accidents happen because people are in a hurry or simply aren’t paying attention. Operation Transit Safety Security exemplifies what the Department strives for: coming together for a common purpose; something we encourage members of our community to practice and share with others.
Operation Transit Safety-Security will continue to operate in a smaller capacity from August 24 – 26 when Arizona State University students return to class.