SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Feb. 28, 2024) - The city of Santa Monica is reinforcing safety and security on Big Blue Bus by deploying transit safety officers across its system next month to ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment for customers and staff. The initiative is part of a broader customer experience plan aimed to enhance Big Blue Bus safety, convenience, and attractiveness, and advance the city's commitment to a Clean & Safe Santa Monica.
In partnership with Good Guard Security, a national leader in security guard services, beginning March 10, Big Blue Bus will station transit safety officers on high-traffic routes and at select bus stops, where they are most needed. The specially trained unarmed officers will ensure passengers feel comfortable and confident riding Big Blue Bus, and will help:
- Assist riders with navigating the regional bus and rail network
- Provide guidance on Big Blue Bus fares and payment methods
- Address safety and maintenance concerns reported by passengers
- Offer support and resource materials to passengers in need
- Educate riders about Big Blue Bus's Code of Conduct and ensure adherence
"Big Blue Bus has long maintained an exceptionally clean, safe, and secure system," said Anuj Gupta, director of Santa Monica Department of Transportation. "We are introducing transit safety officers as another component of our multilayered approach to safety and customer experience, and to provide greater support to our dedicated riders and employees."
See Something, Say Something
Passengers are encouraged to report suspicious or inappropriate behavior to a transit safety officer or Big Blue Bus operator, or use Santa Monica 311. In case of emergencies, dialing or texting 911 is recommended.
For more information about Big Blue Bus, please visit bigbluebus.com.
Media Contact
Robert McCall
310.458.1975 ext. 2386
robert.mccall@santamonica.gov
About Big Blue Bus
Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.
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