Police Department

Transit Unit

Since 1969, the Transit Unit of the Delaware River Port Authority Police Department has been dedicated to keeping PATCO riders safe and secure, while also protecting PATCO property and staff.

DRPA police officers assigned to the Transit Unit are responsible for policing the entire PATCO rapid transit system, covering an area from Center City Philadelphia, PA to Lindenwold, NJ, which includes 14 stations in between. DRPA police officers assigned to the Transit Unit are fully sworn to enforce all laws and ordinances in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

A strategically effective number of DRPA police officers are assigned to the Transit Unit to serve and protect within the 14.2-mile PATCO service area. There are multiple patrol sectors, allowing officers to easily respond to emergencies while empowering them to quickly make decisions and address localized issues. Officers conduct pro-active checks of PATCO facilities and respond to calls for service as needed. Officers patrol stations and parking lots by both vehicle and on foot, including presence on trains. Officers are trained in rail safety and able to efficiently respond to unique calls for service requiring awareness of the high voltage electricity, which energizes PATCO.

The Transit Unit interacts with a diverse population and maintains use of best practices when addressing the needs of those in particularly challenging situations. The Transit Unit builds ties and works closely with members of the ridership and other members of the communities PATCO serves. This includes assisting the unsheltered population within jurisdictions PATCO exists and resolving quality of life challenges.

The DRPA Police Transit Unit extends beyond the regular patrol function with units of specially trained officers. These units receive an additional level of training and provide specialized support in policing a public transit system.