WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy issued a decisive call to action on Thursday, urging local and transit leaders to prioritize safety and security improvements across Washington, D.C.’s transportation systems. With the federal government encouraging a return to in-office work, Secretary Duffy emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe and reliable commute for workers, residents, and visitors in the nation’s capital.
The Secretary addressed these concerns through formal letters directed to D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner, and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) CEO Randy Clarke. Key priorities outlined in the correspondence included crime reduction, fare enforcement, roadway safety, and rebuilding public trust in transit systems.
Crime Reduction and Public Confidence
“There is no place for fear or lawlessness in our nation’s capital,” Secretary Duffy stated, underscoring the need for robust measures to protect passengers and workers across D.C.’s transportation systems. The Secretary stressed the urgency of addressing crime and fare evasion on the Metro and bus systems as critical steps to restoring public confidence in the city’s transit infrastructure.
The Department of Transportation has pledged to leverage federal resources to support these initiatives, signaling a broader push for accountability and action in ensuring a safe urban transportation network.
Letter to D.C. Mayor Focuses on Roadway Safety
In his letter to Mayor Bowser, Secretary Duffy raised concerns about the District’s compliance with federal roadway safety standards. The Secretary called on the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to provide a detailed report within 30 days identifying areas of potential non-compliance and assessing risks to public safety.
The correspondence highlighted the critical function of traffic control devices, such as signs, signals, and pavement markings, in preventing accidents and guiding road users. Duffy emphasized the importance of adhering to prescribed purposes for such devices to enhance roadway safety for both pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Amtrak’s Union Station Under Review
To Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner, Secretary Duffy outlined a need for stronger crime prevention efforts at Washington’s Union Station. Recent violent incidents, including a murder and an assault, underscored the urgency of action. Amtrak, in coordination with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), was directed to submit an updated Crime Prevention Plan within 30 days.
The plan is expected to detail Amtrak’s collaboration with law enforcement agencies and its strategies for addressing security challenges while advancing Union Station’s operational and infrastructure improvements. Duffy also urged proactive engagement with the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC) to ensure the safety and welfare of the traveling public.
WMATA Asked to Strengthen Safety Programs
Secretary Duffy’s letter to WMATA CEO Randy Clarke focused on reducing crime and tackling fare evasion on the Metro system as a means of safeguarding riders and transit workers. The letter called for detailed reports on WMATA’s safety initiatives, funding allocations, and future plans to combat safety and security challenges.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grants and formula funds were noted as eligible resources for implementing safety improvements, signaling the federal government’s willingness to back WMATA initiatives designed to enhance rider experiences and reduce security risks.
A Call for Comprehensive Action
The trio of letters highlights the Department of Transportation’s multi-faceted approach to addressing D.C.’s transportation challenges. By targeting concerns at the local, regional, and operational levels, Secretary Duffy has set a clear expectation for swift and transparent action to secure the safety of the city’s transit systems.
The Secretary’s push comes at a time when cities across the nation are grappling with increased crime on public transit, road safety concerns, and low ridership levels. Washington, D.C., as the political and symbolic heart of the United States, is seen as a pivotal example of how urban centers can prioritize public safety and community trust within their transportation networks.
Moving forward, the Department of Transportation will monitor the progress of these agencies closely, utilizing federal resources and oversight to ensure meaningful improvements. For Washington, D.C., these efforts mark an essential step in restoring its reputation as a secure, efficient, and welcoming capital city for commuters and visitors alike.
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