How does the question of Homeland Security relate to the Red Line?

As any traveler knows, homeland security affects many aspects of our lives today. Specifically for the Red Line, MTA has been meeting with pertinent government agencies and institutions to address security issues on the project. Tunnels and bridges proposed for the project may require additional study to make them as safe as possible. Underground stations for those alternatives containing tunnel segments will require special attention. The MTA also has safety and security plans for existing facilities and operations. These plans were adhered to in planning for the Red Line.

What kind of safety and security measures is the MTA considering for the Red Line?

As with the prior transit lines in Baltimore, the Light Rail and the Metro, there are general safety considerations as well as very specific concerns at locations that require assessment. Introducing a Light Rail Transit or Bus Rapid Transit line along existing streets requires consideration of crossings at roads and walkways; access by police and fire rescue/ambulance teams, and design features at stations and along the line specific to neighboring land uses (churches, schools, hospitals, homes, business, etc.). MTA has used a number of safety features on prior lines at varying levels based on what was appropriate. For example, the existing light rail vehicles have cameras and intercoms so passengers can talk to the driver, if needed. MTA police regularly patrol vehicles and stations during the day. MTA will work with communities along the Red Line to develop a safety program that works for the entire line and addresses specific issues raised by local groups. Parking facilities at the end of the transit line, for example, may have safety features unique to parking lots that may not be needed at stations, and vice versa. We also will work with fire, police and rescue teams in each area to get their input and use that in our design work. Homeland security issues will be addressed through compliance with existing MTA security plans.

How will you provide security at stations?

Although the best security at stations is a high level of ridership and activity by users of the transit line, MTA understands there may be locations, depending on the time of use or other reasons, that require additional measures. This could include closed-circuit cameras, police presence, barrier-free design that fosters good sight lines from many angles and other specific elements. MTA will assess each station's unique needs and consider what is appropriate for safety and security at that location. This will be done with community and business input so we understand their concerns and develop a station design that includes appropriate safety features.