New security measures at MetroLink to deter fare evasion

ST. LOUIS – MetroLink rolled out new security measures to keep non-paying customers off their trains Monday. It was the first day for the new upgrades that started at the Emerson Park stop.

“You can’t get through there without a ticket. They can’t rob them and get on the train for free no more. That’s a good thing,” Kim Smith said.

Passengers noticed the upgrades that started with the gates, new fences, and 30 additional security cameras, just at the Emerson Park stop alone.

“We’re changing something that hasn’t been changed since its existence in 1993. When the system was built, it was built as an open concept system. We don’t face the same challenges or the same problems that we dealt with in 1993,” General Manager of Security Bi-State Development, Kevin Scott, said. “We’re still operating under the old faire system, what you’ve been used to for years.”

The new security upgrades will be happening in phases. The next stops to see the upgrades include Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Washinton Park, and College Station. Passengers will notice the Missouri upgrades in January next year.

Metro riders had this advice for others.

“They need to show up early when they need to get on the train because they need to stamp your ticket to get the gate to open to get through. So they’ve got to do what they’ve got to do,” Smith said.

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