Metro testing beefier barriers to protect bus operators
An example of the AROWGuard barrier in use by Denver RTD. The Seattle Times reports the system is Metro's preferred option. Photo courtesy of Denver RTD.This morning, the Seattle Times ($) reported Metro is testing thicker, intrusion-proof" barriers to protect bus operators from attacks. The barriers will replace the safety partitions" Metro built in-house and installed across its bus fleet in September 2020 to protect drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the Seattle Times notes, the use safety barriers for Metro drivers has been long-debated. However, following the tragic killing of Metro operator Shawn Yim and increasing complaints from drivers about public safety issues impacting their ability to safely operate their buses, the King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci organized a 2.5-hour forum to discuss ways to address issues with transit safety and security. Following that forum, Balducci released a statement summarizing the possible solutions, including adding fully enclosed driver compartments to buses, like on trains and airplanes".
Metro outfitted two buses AROWGuard barriers back in 2017. The Times reports these buses have been circulating around the Eastside for years, but are now being taken on a two-week roadshow" to solicit operator feedback on the potential implementation across the fleet. These barriers have been recently installed by multiple peer agencies including Los Angeles Metro and Denver RTD. In 2017, the barriers reportedly cost about $2,700 each; now, the County estimates the cost of installation for 1,200 buses is $15.1 million, or an average of over $12,000 each. According to the Times, Rod Dembowski, chair of King County's transportation committee, said the county will not sacrifice safety for dollars.
Metro is also reportedly assessing two other options: a fixed barrier designed in-house by the agency, or use of buses with a fully enclosed operator cabin. In January, Metro said it's ordered four test buses with a European-style operator cabin, and a spokesperson from the agency confirmed these are the four Solaris buses Metro ordered in December which they expect to receive in late 2026.
In regard to transit passenger safety and security, the Times quoted Greg Woodfill, President of the ATU Local 587, as saying We're concerned about the passengers, too... once we seal off the operators we'll fight for the passengers."