When you ride an LTD bus, you’ll likely see many of the people who keep the system running reliably and on time. LTD’s public safety transit officers are an important part of the LTD team – they’re committed to providing our community with a safe, comfortable, and reliable ride.
“Here to help”
Josh Schmit, Public Safety Manager for Lane Transit Districtsays that while security is a big part of their job, they are also there to help with any questions you may have about LTD’s services.
“Our public safety officers are really there to help in any way they can,” he says. “First of all, to provide that level of security that makes people feel safe on public transit. And then there’s the familiar face that people see every day that’s there to help them get to their destination.”
Public transit security officers can be seen on EmX buses, at stations and on platforms, and in vehicles patrolling near transit locations. They are in constant contact with LTD’s operations department via radio in case any problems arise. Many of the officers are retired police officers and former military personnel with public service backgrounds.
“Our department is comprised of a group of people at its core who are passionate about serving,” said Officer Cain, an LTD Public Safety Officer. “We are put in unique situations from time to time and how we handle that situation determines the outcome. We always try our best to achieve a positive outcome from every interaction.”
Officials encourage the public to reach out if they have questions or need assistance while riding LTD, Transit Officer Price says.
“We are always there when the system is working and active. If problems arise, we always take care of them and deal with them accordingly,” he says. “If you have a problem, a concern or want to ask a question, just come and talk to us.”
The customer comes first
Safety is a top priority and LTD transit staff assist passengers with a customer-first approach. They are knowledgeable about the bus system and are here to help.
“I saw them carrying groceries; I saw them helping people who had fallen off the ground,” Josh says. “They were giving first aid. We were saving people’s lives.”
The LTD Public Safety Team operates with professionalism, heart and dedication to public service and is an integral part of the Transportation District’s mission to connect the community.
The team was honored earlier this year with the Springfield Police Department Chief’s Award for outstanding performance, exceeding expectations and keeping the community safe.
Make a difference
For public safety officers, the feeling of accomplishment is an important reason why they do their jobs and why they find it so rewarding.
“Just being out there and interacting with people from all walks of life, having conversations and having a positive impact – that’s what I’m looking forward to,” says Officer Price.
Officer Cain shares similar sentiments. “A good day at work for me means knowing that I made a difference in someone’s life,” he says. “Whether I helped them with the simplest task or helped them solve a problem they couldn’t solve on their own, I really enjoy helping people and it’s something I get to do every day.”
