ABQ RIDE is moving forward with a comprehensive long-term security plan aimed at improving safety across Albuquerque’s public transit system. The effort comes after several years of planning and incremental changes intended to address both immediate and ongoing safety concerns for riders and staff.
“Our transit system is undergoing a substantial safety transformation,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “You’ve seen initiatives like the See Say app and Rules to Ride – these are all part of a bigger security vision. Not only are we problem-solving for today, we’re implementing a long-term plan for ABQ RIDE that keeps our community safer.”
Since 2022, ABQ RIDE has introduced various measures including plexiglass barriers for drivers, support from the Metro Security Division, contracted security presence at bus stops, expanded camera coverage, and regular multiagency meetings involving the Albuquerque Police Department (APD), Albuquerque Community Safety, and Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR). These efforts were part of an initial phase focused on enhancing rider and operator protection.
In 2023, the agency rolled out a short-term plan that featured new policies for passenger removal, increased cleanliness throughout the system, and the establishment of the Transit Safety Officer program. Over the next year and a half, ABQ RIDE reported progress as these strategies were implemented in collaboration with partner agencies.
A major step came in 2024 when Parametrix—a national transit planning consultancy—conducted a safety study of ABQ RIDE operations. The firm’s evaluation led to an implementation plan outlining a preferred strategy designed to build upon previous work while addressing gaps in service and security. According to Parametrix’s recommendations, joint leadership between ABQ RIDE administration and APD will guide future actions, which include hiring more security staff as well as creating new positions such as safety & security manager and data analyst.
The city has already started forming its new Transit Safety Division responsible for overseeing day-to-day safety operations. Hiring is underway to reach 87 transit safety officer positions as part of the phased approach outlined in the long-range plan.
“ABQ RIDE’s safety strategy has been forming for a long time now,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “We are proud to present the future of transit security to the public and want them to know that their safety is and will continue to be our top priority.”
The timeline includes implementation milestones beginning with early improvements in 2022, City Council action on short-term strategies in 2023, completion of a long-term study in 2024, and current rollout of comprehensive changes in 2025.
More information about ABQ RIDE’s ongoing transit safety strategy can be found on their official site along with access to the full Albuquerque Long-Range Transit Security Plan.
