US DOT Urges DC Transportation Officials to Prioritize Crime Reduction

Key Takeaways

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has directed Amtrak, WMATA, and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser to address rising crime and fare evasion in the capital’s transit systems.
Despite a decrease in overall violent crime in Washington, D.C., Metro system crime surged significantly between 2022 and 2023, with fare evasion being a major contributor.
The U.S. DOT outlined specific actions for each transportation agency, including crime prevention plans for Amtrak and security budget information from WMATA.

Concerns Over Transit Safety in D.C.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has reached out to leaders of Amtrak, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser to address rising crime and fare evasion in the capital’s transit systems. These letters, sent on March 6, demand specific actions and information from each party, with timelines set for compliance.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reinforced its commitment to overseeing public transportation safety, highlighting the critical need for improved security measures. Duffy emphasized the importance of making the nation’s capital a safe and appealing place for residents and visitors who rely on public transit.

Despite a reported 35% decline in violent crime in the district from 2023 to 2024, crime reports on the Washington Metro rail system saw a troubling increase from 2022 to 2023. Fare evasion has been cited as a significant factor in this escalation, alongside rises in sexual assault, robbery, and homicide, which have reportedly doubled during the same period.

Duffy stated, “Our Nation’s Capital should be a beacon of safety and cleanliness for all who work, live and visit.” His communication with transportation leaders was clear: action is necessary to enhance the safety of those using public transportation, especially regarding crime levels and fare evasion.

The letters specified actions as follows:

– **To Amtrak:** Duffy instructed the agency to implement comprehensive strategies to reduce crime at Washington Union Station, which serves multiple transit users, and to submit an updated crime prevention strategy to the DOT.

– **To WMATA:** Information was requested concerning the agency’s funding and plans to bolster security in the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, particularly as they pertain to reducing crime and fare evasion.

– **To the District Department of Transportation:** Duffy sought a report addressing compliance with federal standards related to roadway traffic control devices, including signage and signals, emphasizing the need for any necessary plan adjustments.

Moreover, Duffy raised concerns about the aesthetics of murals and other artworks present within the DDOT system. He remarked that such designs could distract commuters and undermine the functionality of traffic control devices, which are essential for road safety and operational efficiency. He urged Mayor Bowser to evaluate these installations, suggesting they divert attention away from safety and mobility objectives mandated by law.

Through these communications, the DOT is taking a more active role in reinforcing the safety and integrity of public transportation in Washington, D.C., aiming to ensure that users can travel without fear of crime or harassment.

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