BATA Improves Rider Experience With Addition Of A Seasonal Security Officer

The Bay Area Transportation Authority (Traverse City, MI) has partnered with STT Security Services to help provide an enjoyable customer experience and manage passenger behavior at BATA’s Hall Street Transfer Station, in downtown Traverse City, and on its bus routes.

“BATA wants to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all riders and having a security presence supports that goal. BATA has a respectful rider passenger code of conduct that everyone using its services is expected to follow. Over the past few years BATA has experienced a trend occurring during the winter months of an increase of violations of the code of conduct. That includes loitering at the station or bus shelters, smoking in prohibited areas and occasionally disorderly conduct,” according to a press release.

“Overall, BATA experiences very few passenger issues, but during colder weather we have seen a higher number of incidents, and we want to curtail that,” BATA Executive Director Kelly Dunham said. “Having a uniformed security officer will provide a visual presence to make sure all passengers are adhering to the passenger code of conduct, and that everyone feels safe and comfortable using public transit in our community.”

The release added: “STT uniformed staff will support BATA staff by providing a direct connection with local community resources and law enforcement to assist with challenging riders as needed. This initial pilot will last three months, and the partnership and results will be reviewed for continuation in early April. STT also provides seasonal security officer support at the Traverse Area District Library. The results have been very positive, with a reduction in the number of incidents.”

With more than 130 employees, BATA provides 390,000-plus annual rides to residents and visitors in Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties in Michigan. Visit bata.net.