Overview

• The Center for Police Equity's report finds that fare gates and increased enforcement do not consistently improve safety or revenue recovery on BART.
• The study highlights that most BART arrests stem from outstanding warrants and substance abuse, disproportionately affecting Black riders.
• Researchers recommend non-punitive measures like cleanliness, transit ambassadors, and social service partnerships as more effective alternatives to enforcement.
• BART officials credit fare gates and enforcement for a 50% drop in crime during the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024, and they plan to complete gate installations by year-end.
• BART leadership states they have not fully reviewed the study but reaffirm their commitment to current strategies, including visible safety measures and expanded social service efforts.