NYC-NJ Transit Riders Help Keep System Safe
NJ TRANSIT reminds passengers to report suspicious activity via text or phone line
NJ TRANSIT Urges Riders Report Suspicious Activity
NJ TRANSIT riders can help keep the transit system safe by reporting suspicious activity they observe on trains, buses, or at stations. The transit agency reminded passengers to stay alert and contact authorities if they notice anything unusual, officials said. The reminder applies to all NJ TRANSIT services across the New York-New Jersey metro area, though officials didn't specify whether the announcement was prompted by a specific incident or is part of routine safety communications.
Long-Standing Security Program
The reporting system is part of ongoing transit security efforts that began after the September 11, 2001 attacks, when the Department of Homeland Security launched its national 'See Something, Say Something' campaign. NJ TRANSIT established its text tip line in 2010 as part of enhanced security measures, according to the agency's safety information. Transit agencies receiving federal funding are required to maintain security and emergency preparedness programs under Federal Transit Administration regulations. The agency serves approximately 270,000 passengers on average weekdays across its bus, rail, and light rail services.
Two Reporting Options Available
Passengers can report suspicious packages, vehicles, or unusual activity through two methods: texting NJTPD to 65873 or calling the dedicated tip line at 1-888-TIPS-NJT (1-888-847-7658). The transit authority announced the reminder November 18 via its official social media channels. Officials didn't provide information about how many tips the system receives or their effectiveness in preventing security incidents. The reporting options have been available for years, though specific data about their use wasn't disclosed.
Part of Regional Transit Security
Similar reporting programs operate throughout the region's transit systems. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority in New York City runs a 'See Something, Say Something' campaign with comparable reporting mechanisms, while Philadelphia's SEPTA operates a Transit Watch program with text and phone options. Nancy Snyder, who became NJ TRANSIT's Interim President and Chief Executive Officer in January, oversees the agency's security initiatives. Officials haven't said whether they plan to expand or modify the current reporting system.
Riders Encouraged to Stay Vigilant
Transit officials emphasized that passenger awareness plays a role in maintaining system security. Riders who notice suspicious activity are encouraged to contact authorities rather than investigate themselves. The agency didn't release information about what constitutes suspicious activity or how reports are handled once received. Moovit provides real-time service information for NJ TRANSIT routes throughout the New York-New Jersey metro area.
