Safety & Security

St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD) is partnering with area stakeholders to ensure the safety of riders in St. Clair County, IL. SCCTD has stepped up to ensure St. Clair County Sheriff’s Deputies are playing an active role on the MetroLink trains and stations. Right now, 17 Sheriff’s deputies are patrolling the MetroLink system in IL. Deputies are working to partner on both sides of the rivers on MetroLink to ensure seamless coverage. St. Clair County Deputies are riding with you.

In addition, 69 sworn, uniformed police officers from the St. Clair County Sheriff’s office, City of St. Louis, St. Louis County Police patrol the entire MetroLink system. Undercover police officers are also employed to monitor MetroLink and MetroBus service. Additionally, there are Metro security guards in place to handle fare enforcement on MetroLink platforms and trains.

In 2020, SCCTD announced it was partnering with Chestnut Health Systems, a not-for-profit health and human services organization, tto help address problematic behaviors on the local transit system. Mental health advisors work alongside SCCTD Ambassadors, the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department and Metro Transit Public Safety to mitigate the number of behavioral incidences.

On all MetroLink platforms, camera are monitored on a 24-hours a day, 7-days a week basis through a high-tech CCTV system. These Dispatchers can immediately call for police and/or security assistance, if necessary. Cameras also monitor Park-Ride lots, stairwells, parking facilities and nearly all trains and buses.

Passenger Assist Telephones are located on all MetroLink platforms, allowing customers to ask questions about their commute, or contact security to report suspicious or inappropriate activity. Inside MetroLink trains, customers also have the ability to contact the MetroLink operator by an intercom located at the end of each MetroLink car. Additionally, emergency telephones are located throughout Metro Transit parking facilities that directly link with security.

When riding any public transit system, there are some important tips to keep in mind when traveling to ensure you have a safe commute.

  • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling, and try to stay in well-lit areas.
  • Never offer money to someone you do not know.
  • Keep your packages with you – do not leave them unattended.
  • If there is an emergency, stay calm and listen for instructions. If you are on a train or bus, wait for instructions from your operator. If you are on a platform, listen to station announcements.
  • If a vehicle stops unexpectedly, do not exit the vehicle unless instructed to by official staff. If evacuation becomes necessary, carefully follow the staff’s instructions.
  • If you witness suspicious behavior, call 911.
  • You can also text Metro Public Safety at 314.300.0188.