CTA Introduces Crisis Intervention Teams on Rail Lines

New teams of crisis intervention and community violence prevention workers will soon begin operations on specific sections of the CTA’s Red, Blue, and Green rail lines. The CTA plans to allocate $9.6 million to support these teams during a one-year pilot program. Team members will wear branded uniforms, ensuring they are easily identifiable.

Team Composition and Training

The CTA’s teams will consist of workers trained in de-escalation, crisis intervention, and mental health. They will also be skilled in first aid, including CPR and Narcan administration, as explained by Molly Poppe, CTA’s Chief Innovation Officer. These teams are known as “safe ride specialists.”

At the agency’s recent monthly board meeting, contracts with several nonprofits were approved to establish these teams. This was among the final decisions by the current CTA board, set to be replaced soon as part of state transit reform legislation.

Addressing Crime and Quality-of-Life Issues

The pilot program aims to tackle crime and quality-of-life problems, such as smoking on the CTA. It also seeks to support people who are unhoused or experiencing mental health crises on the transit system. These matters have been a focus during transit reform discussions and continue to be priorities as the region transitions to new transit governance. The CTA anticipates more than $1 billion in new annual revenue for these efforts.

The teams are expected to start working on the rail system in September. This initiative follows the CTA’s increased law enforcement presence in response to threats from the Trump administration to withhold federal funding.

Reduction in Crime Statistics

Transit and law enforcement leaders report a significant decrease in crime on the system following enhanced law enforcement measures. Chicago police data indicates a 29% reduction in serious crimes on the CTA’s city limits sections compared to last year.

Program Details and Partnerships

Acting CTA President Nora Leerhsen highlighted the success of the agency’s security measures. She emphasized the multilayered approach and the recent addition of these specialized teams.

One significant contract within this program involves the Metropolitan Family Services nonprofit, which received up to $6.6 million to fund 20 community violence intervention specialists on the Red Line downtown between the Lake and Roosevelt stations. These specialists will focus on engaging positively with young people on the system, fostering rapport and trust.

Other contracts will support groups like Housing Forward and Street Samaritans, focusing on homelessness, as well as Healthcare Alternative Systems, addressing mental health and substance use. These teams will operate on various segments of the Green and Blue Lines.

Additional Program Funding

The CTA board also approved more funding for a program with the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services. This program assists unhoused individuals seeking shelter on the CTA, with annual costs up to $4.2 million. Board members approved the program until 2027, with an option for extension.

Community Concerns and New Board Members

Despite data showing decreased crime, the CTA continues to face criticism. Pennie McCoach, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308, criticized the agency’s security measures as inadequate. Her comments followed the tragic killing of CTA worker Thomas Kevin Barlow.

The recent board meeting marked the CTA board’s last scheduled meeting before current members’ terms end on September 1. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has appointed Lester Barclay and Michael Eaddy to serve on the new board. The board will also include new members appointed by other officials.