In a series of letters, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy recently urged Washington, D.C., leaders to improve safety on the city’s transportation systems by making improvements that prioritize passenger security, reduce crime, and increase roadway safety.
“The president has called for people to return to (the) office, and it is critical we ensure workers’ safety during their daily commute,” Duffy said. “That is why I am taking action to direct those responsible for ensuring safety for passengers and workers in D.C. to make necessary improvements and upgrades.”
Duffy asked Mayor Muriel Bowser to instruct the District Department of Transportation director to submit a written report within 30 days identifying potential areas of federal roadway safety standard noncompliance. The report also should include locations with an elevated risk to the traveling public and any proposed plans to address concerns.
Duffy asked Randy Clarke, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority CEO, to send the Federal Transit Administration details on the Washington Metro system’s practices, expenditures, and safety and security initiatives. Duffy also asked Clarke to provide details on how safety and security programs and strategies are funded.
Duffy asked Amtrak’s CEO Stephen Gardner to submit an updated Crime Prevention Plan within 30 days. The plan should include details on security expenditures and coordination with law enforcement agencies.