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MCTS Expands Efforts to Combat Fare Evasion and Boost Rider Safety

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. -combat-fare-evasion-and-boost-rider-safety.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 8:46 GMT by fox6now
      Locales: Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

MILWAUKEE, WI - The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) announced today, February 4th, 2026, a significant expansion of its efforts to address persistent issues of fare evasion and rider safety. Building upon initial pilot programs launched in late 2024, MCTS is deploying a multi-faceted strategy that combines increased visibility, proactive rider engagement, and strengthened enforcement, aiming to reclaim public trust and financial stability. The initiatives reflect a growing national trend among transit agencies to balance accessibility with accountability and security.

The struggle with fare evasion has been a long-standing concern for MCTS, bleeding revenue that could be reinvested in service improvements. While precise figures weren't immediately available, estimates from 2025 placed annual losses due to unpaid fares at over $3.5 million, a figure that threatened to impact service frequency and route availability. Simultaneously, reported incidents of disruptive behavior and passenger concerns regarding personal safety eroded public confidence in the system, leading to declining ridership in some areas.

Beyond Ambassadors: The Evolution of the Rider Support Network

The initial "Transit Ambassador Program", praised for its positive impact during its trial phase, has been dramatically expanded. Originally a limited pilot, the program now boasts over 75 ambassadors deployed across the entire MCTS network, including all major bus routes and transit hubs. However, the role of the ambassadors has subtly shifted. While still focused on providing information and assistance, they are now equipped with mobile technology connected directly to MCTS's real-time reporting system. This allows them to quickly flag potential safety concerns, report maintenance issues, and provide immediate assistance to riders in need - essentially acting as 'eyes and ears' for the entire system.

"The feedback from the initial pilot was overwhelmingly positive," explained MCTS Managing Director Dennis McGillicuddy during a press conference this morning. "Riders consistently reported feeling safer and more supported with the ambassadors present. But we realized their potential was even greater. The upgraded technology allows for a faster, more coordinated response to any issues that arise, making the entire system more responsive."

A Layered Security Approach: Combining Personnel with Technology

Alongside the expanded ambassador program, MCTS has unveiled a significant increase in dedicated security personnel. The system now employs a dedicated team of 30 transit security officers, a 50% increase over the previous year. These officers are trained in de-escalation techniques, conflict resolution, and fare enforcement. They are strategically deployed during peak hours and on routes identified as having higher rates of incidents.

However, MCTS is not relying solely on personnel. The agency has also invested heavily in upgrading its surveillance infrastructure. All buses are now equipped with high-definition cameras with improved low-light capabilities, and transit centers feature enhanced CCTV coverage. Furthermore, MCTS is piloting a new AI-powered video analytics system designed to automatically detect suspicious behavior and alert security personnel in real-time. This technology, developed in partnership with local tech firm SecureTransit Solutions, promises to proactively identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Fare Enforcement: Finding the Balance Between Revenue and Equity

The issue of fare enforcement has been approached with deliberate caution. MCTS officials acknowledge the need to recoup lost revenue but are also committed to avoiding punitive measures that disproportionately affect low-income riders. The agency has adopted a three-strike policy: first-time offenders receive a warning, second-time offenders are issued a citation with a small fine, and repeat offenders face more substantial penalties. Crucially, MCTS has also partnered with local social service organizations to provide assistance to riders who are unable to afford fares, including subsidized passes and payment plans.

Data-Driven Iteration and Future Plans

From the outset, MCTS has emphasized a data-driven approach to evaluating the effectiveness of these programs. Key performance indicators, including ridership numbers, reported incidents, fare evasion rates, and rider satisfaction surveys, are being meticulously tracked and analyzed. "We're not just implementing these programs and hoping for the best," stated McGillicuddy. "We're constantly monitoring the data, identifying what's working, what's not, and making adjustments accordingly."

Looking ahead, MCTS is exploring the possibility of implementing a mobile ticketing app with integrated fare capping, making it easier and more affordable for riders to pay for their trips. The agency is also considering expanding its network of Park & Ride facilities to encourage more commuters to utilize public transportation. The ultimate goal, according to MCTS officials, is to create a safe, reliable, and accessible transit system that serves the needs of the entire Milwaukee County community.