Valley Metro said its riders have expressed feeling more secure riding bus, streetcar and light rail more than in past years.
In a survey released this month, the regional public transportation agency in metro Phoenix said the “vast majority” of riders feel safe using the system compared to 2022. Riders to the system cite more visible and professional security officers, cleaner stations and fewer unsafe situations. The improved rider experience paired with a drop in rail security incidents by more than 50 percent year over year.
“The progress we’re seeing reflects the strong partnerships we’ve built with our police departments and the hard work of our teams to ensure that every rider has a positive experience,” Valley Metro RPTA Board Chair and Tempe Councilmember Jennifer Adams said.
According to the survey, 81 percent of bus, streetcar and light rail riders feel very secure or secure, compared to 71 percent in 2022, while 61 percent said they see more security on transit, compared to 52 percent in 2022. The survey found that 82 percent of respondents were likely or very likely to recommend Valley Metro to others, compared to 74 percent in 2022, and 78 percent reported being satisfied or very satisfied with Valley Metro, up from 69 percent in 2022.
“It’s encouraging to have riders tell us they feel safer and more confident using our system,” Valley Metro Rail Board Chair and Phoenix Councilmember Laura Pastor said. “Increased presence of security, partnerships with local law enforcement and enhanced cleanliness along the system are important factors in increasing ridership and the rider experience.”
Bus and rail ridership in September 2025 was up 21 percent with 45,000 daily weekday riders, while the new rail extension into south Phoenix is seeing more than 9,000 riders each weekday and the new Metro Parkway Station had 69,000 boardings in September, the second highest in the system.
“The ease and convenience of light rail is fantastic and is a safer, more efficient mode of transportation. The increased presence of security on the train has been impactful over the last year,” Alex Coil, Valley Metro rider said. “The refresh of light rail cars and overall cleanliness promotes a safe environment for all to enjoy.”