Transit Safety Officers Step Up Their Look

ALBUQUERQUE – Out with the old and in with new uniforms for Transit Safety Officers (TSOs). The dedicated safety and security team for ABQ RIDE is sporting new professional and high-performance uniforms.

The updated regalia provides a more cohesive appearance with other Albuquerque Police Department (APD) teams. The new uniform also offers multi-weather options between a collared short sleeve sport shirt and long-sleeved performance ware, both with colorful shoulder patches featuring APD and TSO branding on each shoulder – the uniform is paired with protective equipment. 

“Uniforms are important identifiers,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These new uniforms for our transit safety officers create a more professional and cohesive look alongside our police department. It’s a simple but meaningful step that helps riders feel more confident, supports consistent enforcement of the rules, and contributes to a safer, more welcoming transit system for Albuquerque.”

“These uniforms are both practical and strategic,” said Deputy Commander McElroy. “We want the public to be met with personnel in the transit system that convey authority, professionalism, readiness, and command respect, while also being approachable, compassionate, and easily identifiable.”

The TSO program was established in 2023 with role of enforcing the Rules to Ride, keeping people safe, and patrolling transit corridors both on-foot and in mobile units. TSOs issue citations, are dual-trained by both APD and ABQ RIDE, help educate the public on local resources, build community, and even conduct life-saving measures. While TSOs are not sworn officers and do not have arrest powers, the program is designed as a feeder program to matriculate city employees from Police Service Aides to TSOs to sworn police officers. 

“For ABQ RIDE, it’s been a gamechanger to have a dedicated transit safety team that is streamlined with transit operations,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “This embedded APD team allows us to mobilize help quickly which improves safety for bus drivers, bus riders, and the greater public. It’s important for TSOs to be recognizable and for the community to know that this team is here for them to enjoy safe rides!”

There are currently 27 budgeted TSO roles at the City of Albuquerque, and the team’s size will grow over the next few years as ABQ RIDE continues to implement the Albuquerque Long-Range Transit Security Plan engineered by Parametrix. This plan will improve safety data and reporting and will also continue centralizing safety efforts and growing the size of the TSO program. 

To learn more about the TSO program, transit safety improvements, long-range safety planning, or to apply for a TSO position, please visit ABQRIDE.com. 

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ABQ RIDE’s mission is to provide the community with clean, safe, and reliable transportation.