FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
June 13, 2023
MARTA POLICE DEPARTMENT
RECEIVES NATIONAL RAIL SECURITY AWARD
MPD Recognized for
Innovative & Proactive Security Measures
ATLANTA – The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Police Department (MPD) has been awarded the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) 2023 Rail Security Gold Award for heavy rail stations for its outstanding security programs, specifically the Joint Bike Patrol Team partnership with the Atlanta
Police Department. The Gold Award recognizes MPD’s security measures as being among the best, making MARTA one of the safest transit systems in the country.
“It is an honor to receive this award and for the MARTA Police Department to be used as an industry benchmark,” said Chief Scott Kreher. “All the recognition goes to the dedicated and professional men and women who make up our police force, with a special mention to the officers who are part of the Joint Bike Patrol Team and
our partners at the Atlanta Police Department. All our officers serve with the singular purpose of making MARTA safe and secure.”
“The most important responsibility as a transit agency and our number one priority is keeping our customers and employees safe,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood. “To see Chief Kreher and MPD recognized for their efforts on a national stage is further proof that the MARTA Police Department is one of the
top law enforcement agencies in the state.”
The Joint Bike Patrol Team (JBPT) was created in 2021, and the increased visibility and accessibility of officers has resulted in a 17 percent overall decrease in crime and a 22 percent increase in ridership and revenue due to increased feelings of safety and security among passengers.
Through the patrol, officers can respond quickly to emergencies and access areas where criminals are operating outside of car-based and foot-based patrol methods. JBPT officers can interact easily with passengers, building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community, and improving the
customer experience by addressing issues such as loitering, panhandling, and disorderly conduct.
MPD accepted the award at the APTA Rail Conference in Pittsburgh on June 13. To see a video honoring MPD’s efforts click here
MARTA Police APTA 2023 Rail Security Gold Award - YouTube
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