Metro News Release

For immediate release: January 12, 2005

TSA, Metro Transit Police team up to bolster security for inauguration week

The Metro Transit Police and the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are collaborating to enhance security and provide a safe environment at Metrorail stations and on trains during the days surrounding the 55th Presidential Inauguration, officials announced today. The inauguration is Thursday, January 20.

TSA canine teams will patrol Metro stations and trains, supplementing Metro’s teams of officers and their explosive detection canines. TSA will also provide federal screeners and explosive trace detection equipment for inspecting items left unattended in the Metrorail system.

"We are taking precautionary measures so our customers know we are doing everything we can to assure that they can use our system without incident," said Metro Transit Police Chief Polly Hanson. "Our customers are likely to see members of our special response teams as well as TSA contingents strategically located at our stations for quick deployment."

"We are ready to assist the Metro Transit Police with the important task of keeping our Metro system secure during the inauguration," said Rear Admiral David M. Stone, USN (Ret.), Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for TSA. "This is a valuable partnership and provides an added layer of protection to enhance the security of the traveling public."

As has been done during past events requiring elevated security, "we are asking our customers to be an extension of our eyes and ears, and let us know if they see anything unusual," Chief Hanson said.

Special response teams of Metro Transit Police as well as Metro and TSA explosive detection canine teams will conduct sweeps of Metrorail stations and trains. "The presence of our special response teams and explosive detection canine teams along with the TSA presence does not indicate any specific threat," Chief Hanson explained. "These are precautionary measures intended to add an additional layer of security." For more information on Metro emergency preparedness visit www.metroopensdoors.com and review the safety-related tips and information including the emergency evacuation guide and alternative route guide. From the home page, go to How to Travel, then Safety. Also, visit washingtonpost.com/express to review the Metro Emergency Guide.

News release issued on January 12, 2005.