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Robert Powers attributes a 67% drop in BART crime to the installation of new fare gates.

BART General Manager Robert Powers reported that crimes against riders fell 67% per million trips between December 2024 and June 2026. The agency attributed this significant decline in crime to the installation of new fare gates across all 50 stations, which were completed in September of last year. These updated gates are designed to be more difficult to bypass illegally, leading to a 60% reduction in reported fare evasion. The agency estimates that the new gates will generate an additional $10 million in annual revenue. Additionally, BART reported a 47% reduction in safety-related delays, as police officers were able to respond more quickly to emergencies with fewer incidents to address. Robert Powers stated that the new gates are the core of a safer, cleaner, and more reliable rider experience. The agency also noted that ridership has increased, with July figures showing a 16.5% rise over the previous year. BART is currently testing improved versions of the gates at the Coliseum and Pittsburg Center stations to increase durability.

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