Prior to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 the United State’s transit systems did a fairly successful job of safely and securely protecting their facilities and passengers.  Up until this time, public transportation security issues mainly dealt with unruly passengers, fare evasion, vandalism, trespassing, and theft.  Most recently, and especially since the public transit bombing attacks in Madrid and the biological attacks in Japan attention in the US has turned to hardening security of our public transportation systems again terrorist activities.

Most U.S. transit systems are increasing their security measures at both their operating/maintenance facilities and passenger stations, but they are doing it with limited funding.  This research report investigates several agencies who have innovatively and creatively implemented cost-effective methods of increasing security at their systems.  In addition this report provides a historic summary of the consequences of terrorism on public transportation and a literature review of existing resources.  Lastly, as part of this research project, a transit security webpage has been developed to serve as a resource mechanism for all transit security staff throughout the nation.

Full Report