Here’s a look at BART’s plan to keep passengers safe during holiday season

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — BART, the Bay Area’s largest transit agency, is kicking things into high gear for the holiday season with a focus on safety.

Through October, the agency says crime is down 45% on BART compared with the same period last year.

“I can see there is a lot of BART Police out,” said BART Rider and Antioch Resident Shahada Lane. “This past 12th Street, I just (saw) two police officers out.”

Lane said she’s seen increased police presence.

“I feel safe as long as you just keep your belongings close by you, out in front of you and keep a good eye of what surroundings (are) around,” Lane said.

ABC7 News talked to BART Police Department Chief Kevin Franklin at the Powell Street Station in downtown San Francisco.

He said they’ve been increasing patrols of trains and stations and overall visibility over the past year.

“And for the holiday season, we’re just doubling down on that presence down here in San Francisco and other places that people are coming to, for those holiday celebrations that people like to travel to and shopping and all those outdoor activities,” he said.

In addition, now all 50 stations in the system have “Next Generation Fare Gates” to stop fare evaders.

MORE: BART celebrates installation of new fare gates at all of its stations

BART says it’s working with the percentage of riders who’ve witnessed fare evasion dropping 59%.

The agency says through October, there’s been a 32% decline in violent crime and 47% drop in property crime compared to the same time period last year.

“That’s the goal is to make BART safe, clean and reliable,” Chief Franklin said. “And we’re not just doing that with our BART staff. We’re also working very closely with our partners here in San Francisco.”

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In fact, while ABC7 was at the Powell Street Station, crews saw SFPD handcuff somebody.

Whether it’s during the holiday season, on or off BART, Chief Franklin is reminding everyone to be aware of your surroundings and keep items to yourself and in your control.

He said you can discreetly report any issues on the BART Watch app.