The Chicago Transit Authority is ending a contract for unarmed private security guards on the mass transit system in favor of spending on other public safety initiatives, including sworn law enforcement staffing, the agency has confirmed.
In a letter sent to Chicago-based Monterrey Security, the CTA said funds appropriated for the private security contract had been “exhausted” and that Monterrey’s security services should cease immediately. Effective immediately, Monterrey should “cease all work and limit activities to those necessary for orderly Contract wind-down,” said the letter from CTA vice president of security Kevin Ryan, which the Tribune reviewed.
The CTA’s letter cites a section of its contract with Monterrey that says the contract can be terminated “if no funds or insufficient funds are appropriated and budgeted” by the mass transit agency. The new security plan includes a 75% increase in policing hours and more patrolling from both the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
The new plan also includes an expansion of the CTA’s mental health outreach to connect people with social services and housing. The union representing the guards confirmed that the CTA laid off 159 members employed by Monterrey Security
The CTA released a statement, saying the funding will instead be directed to sworn police officers and other security resources. “The CTA is strategically strengthening system security by expanding police presence, K-9 units, and crisis response initiatives. Funding previously allocated to unarmed security guards will instead be directed to sworn officers, specially trained professionals and other security resources who are better equipped to help keep riders and staff safe,” the CTA said.
