Is BART in the Bay Area Safe for Commuters?

As of my last update in August 2023, safety concerns regarding the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system have been a topic of discussion. While many riders use BART without incident, there have been reports of crime, including theft and vandalism, particularly in certain areas or during late-night hours. BART management has implemented various safety measures such as increased police presence, surveillance cameras, and community outreach programs to improve safety.

Current Safety Considerations

It is advisable for riders to remain vigilant, travel in groups when possible, and avoid isolated areas of the stations, especially during off-peak hours. For the most current information on safety and any recent incidents, checking local news sources or the BART website is recommended.

Crime Rates Compared to Other Metro Systems

When compared to other large U.S. metro systems like NYC and Chicago, BART is very safe. However, considering that these systems have lower crime rates to begin with, BART’s safety record is still noteworthy. There have been reports of murders, robberies, and assaults on BART, and the crime rates have increased in recent years. In particular, inner East Bay stations such as Coliseum, Fruitvale, and Civic Center/Powell St in SF have high crime rates. However, serious crimes are rare.

What you're most likely to encounter are homeless individuals, mentally ill, and drug addicts using the train as a temporary shelter, which can be unpleasant but is generally not life-threatening.

Community and Management Efforts

BART's official website states that the system has a historically high number of uniformed safety staff on platforms and trains, including police officers dedicated to riding trains, new unarmed ambassadors, community service officers, and fare inspectors. Most of the stations are behind gates, so people can't just walk up to the trains without purchasing a ticket.

From personal experience, the most frequently seen crime is property crime, such as pickpocketing or the theft of cell phones. The last reported incident of someone accosted on BART occurred over 30 years ago.

BART is significantly safer than other local transit systems like MUNI. I have never had my wallet grabbed on a BART train or my purse snatched by a bicyclist while walking. While there can be occasional individuals with mental illnesses who may be challenging, they have never been a threat to my safety; it's just a matter of ignoring their behavior.

Conclusion

BART has made significant efforts to improve safety, and the system is generally very safe for commuters. While there are occasional concerns, following basic safety precautions and utilizing available resources can help ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.