U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today called for immediate action and accountability from Chicago and Boston leadership for their failure to keep riders and transit workers safe.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has come under scrutiny for its incidence of crime; one recent news report points to an attack where a 27-year veteran of the CTA was senselessly punched and thrown onto the tracks after leaving his customer service booth. Similarly, recently an elderly woman was shoved off a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) bus and seriously injured. Last month, an individual removed his belt on an MBTA bus and assaulted riders.
Chicago and Boston are the third and fourth largest public transportation systems in the country in terms of ridership. Both cities allow cashless bail, which allows deranged criminals to repeatedly terrorize public spaces.
“President Trump cares about our great cities and the hardworking Americans who inhabit them,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “While local leaders seem intent on putting the needs of criminals first, we’re not waiting for the next Iryna. Chicago and Boston are on notice to take actions that enhance safety and reduce the crime affecting their riders and transit workers – or risk federal support. This is about standing up for American families who deserve a safe and clean transportation system.”
“Our transit systems are the circulatory system of our communities. That’s why our focus is on a safe, clean transit experience for everyone using public transportation — whether you’re a worker helping people get where they need to go, a commuter relying on transit to get to work, or a parent helping your children get to and from school or other important appointments. We’re making transit safe again,” said Federal Transit Administrator Marc Molinaro.
Additional Information:
In letters to Acting President Nora Leerhsen of the Chicago Transit Authority and General Manager Philip Eng of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, Secretary Duffy notes their responsibility to put protections in place to keep transit workers and riders safe and secure. To hold these agencies accountable, Secretary Duffy has requested that both transit agencies submit written reports within 14 days, that:
- Identify what actions have been taken and are being taken by the transit agency to deter crime, stop fare evasion, and provide a clean environment for passengers riding its transit system, and in turn, return public confidence in CTA’s transit system.
- Summarize all sources of funds for fiscal year 2025 and 2026 relating to security, safety, and any funds from Federal agencies, including any Department of Homeland Security funds.
The letter are the latest in a series of letters Secretary Duffy has sent to transit systems urging them to address safety and fare evasion and to focus on improving safety and reducing crime to make commuting safe for Americans and their families.
Earlier this year, Secretary Duffy also sent letters to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority outlining concerns about safety and security on those transit systems.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those who travel in and through the nation’s largest public transportation systems. By directing local leaders to address critical safety concerns, uphold federal standards, and prioritize effective crime prevention measures, USDOT is reinforcing its oversight role in safeguarding public transportation systems. These actions underscore the Trump Administration’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure, promote efficient mobility, and protect passengers, workers, and visitors in Chicago, Boston and throughout the country.