Chicago: K-9 teams returning to CTA rail system with new security contract [View all]

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is bringing back K-9 security teams to its rail system as part of its “Meeting the Moment” action plan, which includes enhanced safety and security as one of its five pillars.

CTA has signed an 18-month contract with Action K-9 for $30.9 million, which will provide up to 100 unarmed guards and 50 canines per day, plus supervision and supporting equipment. The K-9 teams will consist of two unarmed guards and one canine. These new K-9 units will complement the efforts of the existing security presence out on CTA, which now boasts more than 300 unarmed guards throughout the system each day.

K-9 units have not been on CTA platforms since 2019 following questions that the contractor used at the time was sending guards not properly trained in handling the animals.

CTA says it has contracted with Action K-9 for security support in the past, but notes the new contract will allow each K-9 team to better handle a variety of situations by doubling the number of security guards with each canine. ..............(more)

https://www.masstransitmag.com/safety-security/article/21278686/k9-teams-returning-to-cta-rail-system-with-new-security-contract