MINNEAPOLIS — Metro Transit is continuing its push to improve safety and the rider experience by putting so-called "agents" aboard light rail trains beginning Friday.
The agency says 24 TRIP (Transit Rider Investment Program) agents will be deployed to ride the METRO Green and Blue lines between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. beginning Feb. 23. They will wear identifiable royal blue uniforms, be specially trained in de-escalation techniques, and carry radios to contact emergency dispatchers if necessary.
TRIP agents will have multiple duties, including:
- Inspecting fares and issuing administrative citations to riders who haven't paid
- Educating riders about “Your Role As a Rider,” which outlines illegal activities like smoking, doing drugs, playing loud music and other behaviors that violate Metro Transit’s Code of Conduct
- Answering questions about routes and schedules
- Helping riders connect with social service programs
- Administering first aid and Narcan
For the next several weeks, TRIP Agents will ride alongside community service officers (CSOs) who have been inspecting fares and issuing administrative citations since the beginning of December. This spring, CSOs will transition from light rain trains to Bus Rapid Transit lines to perform similar duties.
“Having a visible, official presence on transit is at the center of our efforts to provide a safe, welcoming system, so these TRIP Agents are a welcome addition to the many other layers of presence that exist already,” explained General Manager Lesley Kandaras in a release announcing the staff additions.
Metro Transit says TRIP agents and CSOs are currently aided by security officers and representatives from 10 community-based organizations who maintain a presence on vehicles and at stations to keep riders safe.
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