As Calgary transitions into warmer weather, more residents are expected to utilise public transit for their daily commutes and leisure activities. Ensuring a safe and comfortable experience on Calgary Transit is a shared responsibility between the service provider and its passengers. This article outlines current safety measures, recent improvements, and provides essential contact information for reporting concerns.
Enhanced Safety Measures
Calgary Transit has implemented several initiatives to bolster safety across its network:
Increased Patrols: Uniformed Calgary Transit peace officers patrol the system 24/7, proactively addressing issues and assisting in emergencies. Night patrols are conducted in partnership with the Calgary Police Service, enhancing security during late hours.
Lighting Upgrades: Stations and platforms have undergone lighting enhancements, particularly from Downtown West/Kerby to City Hall. Improved illumination not only deters undesirable activities but also ensures clearer footage for security cameras, aiding in incident management.
Transit Watch Program: This initiative allows passengers to discreetly report safety or security concerns by texting 74100. Reports are received by staff who can dispatch officers if necessary. For immediate threats, calling 911 remains imperative.
Positive Trends in Safety Perception
Recent surveys indicate an upward trend in passengers' sense of security:
Daytime CTrain Ridership: Approximately 72% of respondents feel safe riding the CTrain during the day, an increase from 67% in May 2023.
Nighttime CTrain Ridership: There's been a rise in perceived safety during nighttime rides, with 39% of passengers reporting they feel safe, up from 33% in previous surveys.
Station Safety After Dark: Perceptions of safety while waiting at stations after dark have also improved, with 34% of respondents feeling secure, compared to 27% earlier.
These improvements are attributed to focused investments and collaborative efforts between Calgary Transit, law enforcement, and community partners.
Safety Tips for Transit Users
Passengers can enhance their safety by adopting the following practices:
Stay Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings. Report any suspicious activities or unattended packages immediately.
Utilise Designated Areas: While waiting, remain in well-lit, populated areas of the platform or bus stop.
Keep Valuables Concealed: Avoid displaying expensive items openly to reduce risk of theft.
Travel in Groups: When possible, commute with friends or fellow passengers, especially during late hours.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situations feels uncomfortable, seek assistance or move to a different area.
Reporting and Assistance
Calgary Transit encourages passengers to report any safety concerns promptly:
Emergency (Immediate Danger): Call 911
Transit Security (Non-Emergencies): Call 403-262-1000 (Press 1)
Text Transit Watch: 74100 (For discreet safety concerns)
Help Phones: Found at all CTrain Stations -- connects you directly to security.
Report Issues to 311: If you notice damage, cleanliness issues, or other non-urgent concerns, you can call 311 or use the 311 Calgary app to report them.
For general inquiries or further information, passengers can contact Calgary Transit at 403-262-1000 between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
Easy Transit to BLOX
As the city enjoys warmer days, Calgary Transit remains committed to providing a safe and reliable transportation experience. Through continuous improvements, collaborative efforts, and active passenger participation, the transit system aims to ensure that all riders feel secure and confident during their journeys.
If you're heading to The BLOX, Calgary Transit makes getting here simple and safe. With 8th Street SW Station and 3rd Street SW Station both within walking distance, along with several bus routes running along 10th, 11th and 12th Avenues SW, there are plenty of convenient options to explore the area without needing to drive. BLOX is also highly walkable and connected to Calgary's bike and scooter networks, giving you safe, flexible ways to move around the district. Whether you're visiting for shopping, dining, or one of our many events, safe and accessible transit options make it easy to enjoy all that BLOX has to offer.
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