Event Information

Date:

Location: Maggiano’s 111 W. Grand Avenue, Chicago

Speaker: Eddie Winters

Program Title:
The Unique Security Challenges of Securing a Public Transportation System

Program Description

This presentation explores the unique and evolving security challenges facing public transportation systems in major urban environments. Unlike traditional facilities, transit systems operate as open-access environments with high passenger volume, constant movement, and limited control over who enters the system. These conditions create complex operational and security challenges that require a balanced approach focused on prevention, visibility, behavioral awareness, and rapid response.

Key issues impacting transit safety, including fare evasion, graffiti and vandalism, unhoused populations utilizing transit systems for shelter, and circle riding will be shared with the audience. The presentation also incorporates real-world cases to illustrate how incidents develop, how security vulnerabilities are exploited, and how agencies can strengthen response strategies through intelligence-led operations, technology integration, and coordinated partnerships.

Learning Objectives