Rahul Somvanshi
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has called on Washington, D.C. leaders to improve safety across the city’s transportation systems as more workers return to offices. In letters sent on March 6, 2025, Duffy directed D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner, and WMATA CEO Randy Clarke to address critical safety issues.
“The President has called for people to return to office, and it is critical we ensure workers’ safety during their daily commute,” said Duffy. “Our Nation’s Capital should be a beacon of safety and cleanliness for all who work, live, and visit.”
Key Focus Areas
The Transportation Department’s push targets three main areas:
WMATA Safety and Fare Evasion: Duffy directed WMATA to address crime and fare evasion on metro and bus systems. The agency must provide information about their safety practices, expenditures, and initiatives to the Federal Transit Administration.
Union Station Management: Amtrak was ordered to submit an updated Crime Prevention Plan within 30 days. This follows a recent murder and violent assault at the station. The plan must include details on coordination with law enforcement agencies and security spending.
Roadway Compliance: In his letter to Mayor Bowser, Duffy expressed concern about D.C.’s compliance with federal safety standards for roadways. He requested a report within 30 days identifying non-compliant areas and safety risks.
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WMATA’s Response
WMATA General Manager Randy Clarke responded on social media: “Thank you @SecDuffy for your interest in working with us to further enhance safety & security on Metro. While we’ve made incredible progress, there’s still more work to do.”
According to a January WMATA report, some crime indicators have improved. Aggravated assault, destruction of property, and robbery force are down, though simple assault increased by 5%. The agency also reported a 94% increase in fare evasion enforcement in 2024.
DC News Now interviewed riders who expressed confidence in the system. “I feel pretty safe on the Metro. Police are on there regularly going on the train, they catch anything,” said one daily commuter named Cat.
Federal Support
Duffy emphasized that federal law allows transit agencies to use both formula funds and capital grants for projects that combat crime and improve safety. The Department of Transportation plans to use “every resource at its disposal to restore public confidence and ensure a safe experience for the millions who visit and work in our capital.”
The letters reflect the Department’s oversight role in safeguarding public transportation and align with broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and protect passengers throughout the capital.
