SacRT has expanded its partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, increasing Sheriff staffing levels. Courtesy photo

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has announced a transition in its Police Services Department staffing, which went into effect Jan. 10 After nearly  34 years of dedicated service, SacRT’s contract with the Sacramento Police Department will conclude, marking the end of a long-standing partnership that has played a vital role in supporting transit safety and security in the Sacramento region. 

To ensure continued safety coverage across the transit system, beginning on Jan. 11 SacRT has expanded its partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, increasing Sheriff staffing levels. 

The Sheriff’s Department is actively hiring and training additional deputies to support this smooth transition. 

SacRT’s enhanced safety team will include one lieutenant, three sergeants, nine deputies, two detectives, eight (armed) sheriff security officers, 50 transit ambassadors and 70 Blue Knight security guards.

SacRT’s 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) will continue to operate from the Sacramento Police Department’s Real Time Information Center, ensuring seamless coordination in emergency response and maintaining a strong collaborative relationship. 

The SacRT Board of Directors recently approved an additional $1 million investment in security for FY26 to further enhance rider safety and comfort. This funding will support additional Transit Ambassadors (from 40 to 50), hire two additional staff in the Security Operations Center, and expand security guard presence at stations, on vehicles and in parking lots.

SacRT has remained committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment for all riders and employees throughout the transition. By establishing a clear vision, developing a comprehensive plan, and executing that plan with discipline and innovation, SacRT has been able to build multiple layers of safety and security into its operations ensuring a smooth transition. Through new technologies, enhanced procedures, and continued strong partnership with community organizations and law enforcement, SacRT’s bus and rail systems now rank among the safest in the country.

SacRT aims to have a Transit Ambassador, Security Guard, or Sheriff’s Department staff member on every light rail vehicle. Transit Ambassadors will provide fare checks, customer service and rider support. 

Over 2,000 live cameras monitored in real time, with access to city and county networks will provide advanced surveillance. An AI drone program, launching in 2026 will maintain clean environments and improve operational performance at stations, along tracks and at bus stops/shelters. 

The Public Address System (“Voice of God”) allows Security Operations Center staff to communicate directly with individuals at stations. The Aert SacRT App enables riders to report safety concerns or cleanliness issues directly to SacRT’s security team. Download at sacrt.com/AlertSacRT. 

“Safety and security remain our top priority at SacRT,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “We are proud to expand our partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department and continue investing in innovative technologies and staffing strategies that ensure our riders feel safe and supported throughout their journey.” 

“We are honored to strengthen our partnership with SacRT and expand our presence across the transit system,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper. “Our deputies are committed to providing professional, responsive service to help ensure a safe and secure environment for all SacRT passengers and employees.” 

SacRT’s multi-layered safety approach, strong partnerships, and investment in technology underscore its unwavering commitment to rider and employee safety. Learn more on the programs in place at sacrt.com/safety.  

As part of the transition, SacRT Police Services will update to a new logo reflecting the expanded partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department.