Riders react to CTA plan replacing security guards with police officers

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The CTA said it's moving in a new direction to keep passengers safe.

The CTA is beginning to implement their new safety plan as directed by the Trump administration to tighten up security or risk losing federal funding.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The plan includes replacing unarmed security guards with more sworn police officers.

The CTA is laying off 159 unarmed security guards and now shifting its focus to expanding the presence of sworn police officers as a way to improve safety for riders.

"I welcome it," rider Terry Angsten said. "Sorry for anyone who loses their job, but it seems to be a necessary change."

The move comes in response to an order from the Trump Administration, following some high-profile crimes on the transit system.

"I think it's great," rider Jenny Hohmeier said. "It would make me feel much safer."

"I love it<" rider Casey W. said. "More police to protect us and all that stuff I love it."

The new security plan includes a 75% increase in policing hours and more patrolling from both the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Sheriff's Office, something riders said they welcome.

"The current news cycle has indicated that there is a need for armed officers or, I'm a dog lover, so I think the canines are the best defense," Angsten said.

The CTA said it's strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives.

The funding that was allocated to unarmed security guards will now be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe.

"Safety is our top priority and the work that we have continued to do to make sure that our ridership can experience safety, it is why we are making these necessary investments," Mayor Brandon Johnson said.

The new plan also includes expanding the CTA's mental health outreach to connect people with social services and housing.

The CTA released a statement, saying the funding will instead be directed to sworn police officers and other security resources.

"The CTA is strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives. Funding previously allocated to unarmed security guards will instead be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other security resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe," the CTA said.