The Bay Area Council, along with a coalition of over 100 Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) groups, business leaders, and community advocates, has formally requested that Governor Gavin Newsom deploy the California Highway Patrol (CHP) across the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. The request follows a series of violent attacks, including a recent near-fatal slashing incident and the tragic death of an Asian American woman pushed into a train earlier this year.
In a letter to Gov. Newsom, coalition members emphasized the urgent need for a stronger law enforcement presence on BART, citing widespread fear among riders. “There must be zero tolerance for crime on BART,” said Jim Wunderman, Bay Area Council President and CEO. “Bold and immediate action can help restore public confidence in BART and encourage riders to return.”
Mark Young, Co-Founder of Stand With Asians, highlighted the vulnerability of the AAPI community, which comprises 25% of BART ridership. “Deploying more safety patrols is a critical short-term step to restore safety and trust while working toward lasting solutions,” he said.