The Los Angeles Metro’s tap-to-exit pilot program, designed to enhance safety and fare compliance, has been paused following a surge in security incidents. Since its suspension in early April 2024, the program has seen a notable increase in reported crimes on the Metro B Line, raising concerns for both passenger safety and revenue generation.
Initially launched in response to rising crime and drug use on the transit system, the tap-to-exit program required riders to tap their Metro cards upon arrival to confirm fare payment. In its first few months, LA Metro reported a remarkable 40% decline in security incidents on the Metro B Line, which connects North Hollywood to Union Station. Following its initial rollout in North Hollywood, the program expanded to Union Station and later to the Downtown Santa Monica station on the E Line.
However, the Los Angeles Fire Department raised alarms about potential safety issues, particularly regarding bottlenecks at exit gates during emergencies. As a result, the tap-to-exit program was put on hold while LA Metro and the Fire Department sought a resolution.
Security Incidents Surge After Program Suspension
Data presented to the LA Metro board indicates a sharp reversal in safety trends following the program’s suspension. Union Station alone experienced a staggering 116% increase in reported security incidents, while North Hollywood saw a 67% rise. Concurrent crime data from the Los Angeles Police Department highlighted an increase in “narcotics activity” on the B Line, further underscoring the challenges facing the transit system.
The financial implications of the program’s halt have also been significant. In the first month after the suspension, fare revenue fell by nearly $35,000 at both Union Station and North Hollywood. This decline raises concerns about the broader impact on LA Metro’s financial health and its ability to fund improvements to the transit system.
Future Plans and Ongoing Discussions
In response to these developments, LA Metro submitted a “request for modification” to the Fire Department in June, aiming to review and potentially restore the tap-to-exit program at train stations under its jurisdiction. The agency plans to provide engineering and architectural drawings of the faregates at North Hollywood Station to the Fire Department within 30 days.
Despite the ongoing discussions with the Fire Department, LA Metro remains committed to implementing the tap-to-exit system at all end-of-line stations. This includes the upcoming A Line northern terminus in Pomona, set to open later this week. The program’s future implementation is contingent on securing support from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, which oversees Pomona.
The upcoming presentation to the LA Metro operations, safety, and customer experience committee will also showcase data from additional pilot programs focused on weapons detection, improved faregates, and a smart restroom initiative. As LA Metro navigates these complex challenges, the agency aims to enhance both safety and operational efficiency on its transit lines.
