The Block Club Chicago Podcast Do You Feel Safe On The CTA? Riders React To Boost In Police On Trains
Mar 19, 2026
Patrick Filbin, a transit safety reporter who covers neighborhood issues, brings on-the-ground interviews and data. He walks through crime trends on CTA trains and riders’ personal safety stories. He discusses high-profile national incidents, the CTA’s ramped-up policing and nonpolice supports, and the debate over policing versus addressing root causes.
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CTA 2025 Crime Numbers Are Mixed Not Exploding
- Violent crime on CTA property was largely flat in 2025 with about 902 incidents, roughly 20 fewer than 2024.
- Police data showed system-wide crime down 9% from December to February and bus violent incidents down 19% in that span.
Riders Say High-Profile Attacks Changed Their Behavior
- Riders shared personal fear and reluctance to use trains after high-profile attacks, including one who said they avoided trains after a woman was set on fire.
- Patrick interviewed a dozen to 15 riders on the blue and red lines who voiced safety concerns and preferred buses over trains.
Federal Threat Triggered Rapid CTA Security Push
- The federal government threatened to withhold a $50 million grant after the November blue line fire incident, prompting CTA action.
- CTA increased police presence first in December and then further expanded patrol hours, off-duty officer availability, and added sheriff's deputies.