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In response to rising assaults on bus operators nationwide, the San Mateo County Transit District Board of Directors voted to install protective safety barriers on 72 of its most heavily used buses, including those serving its busiest route, the ECR line along El Camino Real between Daly City and Palo Alto.
The safety initiative coincides with a 50% decline in operator assaults observed by SamTrans since implementing its Rider Code of Conduct in May. The policy, designed to enhance safety for both operators and passengers, sets behavioral standards for riders and complements ongoing efforts to protect transit workers.
“Protecting our bus operators with these barriers is critical to maintaining a safe and reliable transit system,” said Chair Marina Fraser. “This investment underscores our commitment to their health and safety while continuing to serve our riders with excellence.”
The $644,291 contract with bus manufacturer New Flyer will retrofit 55 diesel articulated buses and 17 battery-electric buses with state-of-the-art protective doors. All future SamTrans buses will include these barriers as standard equipment. The collaboration with New Flyer also preserves existing warranties on the fleet.
Developed in partnership with the SamTrans Bus Transportation and Safety Departments and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1574, the barriers align with the Federal Transit Administration’s General Directive 24-1. The directive mandates transit agencies to address and mitigate risks to bus operator safety.
In addition to enhancing operator safety, the barriers are part of a broader strategy to maintain a secure environment for passengers and operators alike.
