Metro receives TSA’s Gold Standard Award for transit security for a record fifth time

With perfect scores across all 17 transit security categories, Metro has been recognized with the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Gold Standard Award, demonstrating a sustained, systemwide commitment to keeping customers and employees safe. The award recognizes Metro as a national leader in transit security and emergency preparedness.

“Protecting our customers and employees is at the core of everything we do,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “We continue to take a proactive and vigilant approach to addressing current and emerging security challenges while working in close coordination with our regional and federal partners.”

In 2025, Metro achieved the lowest crime rate in its history through increased fare enforcement, over 30,000 cameras monitoring the system, and MTPD’s collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

“The TSA Gold Standard Award is issued to organizations that have outstanding security programs,” said TSA Assistant Administrator for Surface Operations, Sonya Proctor. “This is the fifth time WMATA is the recipient of this award, a first for any TSA Gold Standard Award winner. We are excited to recognize WMATA for their exemplary efforts in helping secure the traveling public.”

“Metro’s security efforts reflect the dedication of the Metro Transit Police Department and the close collaboration we maintain with TSA and law enforcement agencies at all levels. MTPD works with our local and federal partners supporting the safety and security of the National Capital Region.” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Anzallo.

TSA’s Baseline Assessment for Security Enhancement (BASE) is a comprehensive review of security programs to enhance threat prevention and protection, and boost response preparedness. Assessment categories included Metro’s security plan, security training, drills and exercise programs, and public outreach efforts.

About Metro

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), known as Metro, is the region’s leading public transportation provider, serving a population of approximately four million people across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia within a 2,054-square-mile jurisdiction. With a network of six rail lines, 98 stations, 126 bus routes, and a door-to-door paratransit service, Metro is the second busiest transit system in the United States serving more than 269 million trips in 2025 with a $5 billion operating and capital budget. Since 2022, Metro has completed multiple transit-oriented development projects that have brought $15 million in tax revenue to the region from housing, office, and retail space in our community. Safety and security are core values at Metro. Over 30,000 cameras monitor the system, and Metro currently has the lowest crime rate in history with fare evasion down 82%. In 2025, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) named Metro the Transit Agency of the Year in recognition of industry-leading ridership growth, record high customer satisfaction, a newly redesigned Bus network, expanded rail service, and improved customer experience.