Amidst the backdrop of Chicago's bustling New Year's Eve celebrations, a heated debate has emerged regarding public transit safety. Ald. Jim Gardiner, a vocal critic of public transit safety, recently urged his constituents to avoid using public transit after dark, citing concerns over crime. However, data reveals a different narrative, indicating a decline in crime on the CTA. Despite Gardiner's plea, the city recorded 4,413 reported crimes on CTA property in 2025, a decrease from the 6,387 crimes recorded in 2019. This trend is further supported by the absence of reported crimes on CTA property between New Year's Eve and New Year's Day last week.
The alderman's concerns come in the wake of a series of social media posts decrying the state of public transit safety, particularly after a 26-year-old woman was set on fire while riding the Blue Line in November. As Gardiner stoked debate over policing on CTA property, the Trump administration threatened to withhold federal funding over security concerns. Yet, police data reveals a 4.4% drop in overall crime in 2025 compared to the previous year.
In response to Gardiner's post discouraging riders from using the CTA on New Year's Eve, Mayor Brandon Johnson's Office emphasized their commitment to public safety. The administration proudly partnered with the CTA to offer free rides system-wide on New Year's Eve, ensuring Chicagoans could enjoy the festivities safely. The CTA, in turn, has implemented a new "security surge plan" to increase police patrols from 77 to 120 per day.
However, critics argue that relying solely on increased police presence may not be the most effective solution. W. Robert Schultz III, a campaign organizer with the Active Transportation Alliance, suggests that focusing on the transit ambassadors program could be more beneficial. Under the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act, unarmed transit ambassadors would provide customer service, de-escalation skills, and connections to mental health resources, affordable housing, and substance use treatment.
San Francisco's successful implementation of transit ambassadors on the Bay Area Rapid Transit line serves as a model for Chicago. During a six-week period, the ambassador program reduced safety-related 911 calls by 53%. Schultz emphasizes that the role of law enforcement is to investigate and apprehend, but that deterrence is limited. He argues that a balanced approach, combining law enforcement with community-oriented initiatives, is essential for creating a safer transit environment.
As the debate continues, the CTA's commitment to working with the Chicago Police Department and other partner organizations to enhance safety remains a focal point. The agency's collaboration with the Strategic Decision Support Center, which uses security cameras to monitor CTA property, is a testament to their dedication to rider safety. The CTA's revised safety plan, if submitted, will likely invite input from riders and employees, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing safety concerns.
