Phoenix Valley Metro Creates Safety App for Riders

Phoenix Valley Metro Creates Safety App for Riders

When a rider uses the app or a text to report a non-emergency security incident, the operations center alerts security staff so they can find the corresponding train and respond to the report.

The Valley Metro in Phoenix, Ariz., has created an app to allow people to contact security while riding. The app is free to use on both Apple and Android devices, and riders who don’t have access to apps can report incidents by texting 602-253-7886, according to CEO Scott Smith.

When a rider uses the app or a text to report a non-emergency security incident, the operations center alerts security staff so they can find the corresponding train and respond to the report.

Smith said the app should be used for situations that are not urgent enough for a 911 call; for example, an unruly drunk passenger. According to the Valley Metro website, riders can also use the service to report human trafficking, maintenance problems, suspicious packages, vandalism and panhandling.

“It could be something as simple as a spilled drink that’s created a mess in the car,” Smith said.

The reporting service, via both text and app, are currently only available for use on the light rail.

“Right now we’re just using it on rail. We’re starting out there to see how it works and test the system on smaller scale, but we hope to be able to expand it to bus in the near future,” Smith said.

Smith believes the app will help improve the experience of Valley Metro riders.

“Our goal and objective is to make everybody have a safe and comfortable ride on our light-rail system,” Smith said.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Accelerating a Pathway

    There is a new trend touting the transformational qualities of AI’s ability to deliver actionable data and predictive analysis that in many instances, seems to be a bit of an overpromise. The reality is that very few solutions in the cyber-physical security (CPS) space live up to this high expectation with the one exception being the new generation of Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software – herein recategorized as PIAM+. Read Now

  • Protecting Your Zones

    It is game day. You can feel the crowd’s energy. In the parking lot. At the gate. In the stadium. On the concourse. Fans are eager to party. Food and merchandise vendors ready themselves for the rush. Read Now

  • Street Smarts

    The ongoing acceptance of AI and advanced data analytics has allowed surveillance camera technology to shift from being a tactical tool to a strategic business solution. Combining traditional surveillance technology with AI-based data-driven insights can streamline transportation systems, enhance traffic management, improve situational awareness, optimize resource allocation and streamline emergency response procedures. Read Now

  • The Progress of Biometrics

  • Next-Gen AI for Smart Cities

    The future of smart city technology is not being shaped in Silicon Valley — it is taking root in Dubuque, Iowa. With a population of about 60,000, this mid-sized city has become a live testbed for AI-driven traffic management thanks to a unique public-private collaboration led by Milestone Systems. Project Hafnia demonstrates how cities can transform urban mobility and safety through Responsible Technology—without costly infrastructure overhauls. Read Now

New Products

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.