Ben Franklin Transit Deploys Security Officers at Transit Centers

​Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) has hired contracted security officers to patrol transit centers and ride randomly selected bus routes beginning Monday, February 23, 2026. The transit security officers will be responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for employees, passengers, and community members. They will conduct visible patrols of transit centers, buses, and surrounding BFT properties to deter criminal activity, identify safety concerns, and respond promptly to incidents. Ben Franklin Transit staff want to ensure the public understands that these are not federal ICE officers, but security officers employed under a contract with Phoenix Security Corporation, a local company.

A primary focus of their duties will be conflict prevention and de-escalation. The transit security officers are expected to engage individuals respectfully while maintaining authority and professionalism. Ben Franklin Transit staff believe that deploying security officers will contribute to a secure transit system that promotes public trust, employee confidence, and rider safety throughout the BFT network. Security personnel are widely used in the transit industry, particularly among larger transit providers.