The Raleigh Police Department’s Transit Unit has officially marked its first month of operations since being reimagined – and the results are already turning heads.
Launched with a renewed focus on investigative autonomy and officer development, the Transit Unit has taken a non-traditional approach to policing that’s yielding measurable results. Over the past month, the unit has tackled 22 follow-up investigations, with 20 successfully resolved and a 91% clearance rate.
“This team is highly motivated, and it shows in the work they’re doing,” said department leadership. “They’re not only solving cases – they’re setting a new standard for initiative and innovation.”
Beyond investigations, the Transit Unit has been proactive in enforcement efforts around Raleigh’s downtown core. In its first month, the team launched two targeted safety projects to increase officer visibility and responsiveness:
- Crosswalk Enforcement Project
In partnership with the Traffic Enforcement Unit, officers focused on high-traffic pedestrian areas at South Wilmington and South Blount Streets. The initiative involved both vehicle stops and Recon bike patrols to heighten visibility. Officers issued multiple citations, and the community response was overwhelmingly positive. - Project Swift Engagement
Designed to tackle issues at high-activity bus stops throughout downtown, this initiative leveraged the mobility of Recon bikes to monitor and respond swiftly to incidents. The effort covered stops at locations including Pecan & Wilmington, New Bern & Raleigh Blvd, and 1313 New Bern Ave.
While the team also worked with City departments to secure infrastructure, such as key fob access and a secure equipment storage area, some facility specifications are still being refined to meet operational needs.
Looking Ahead
As the Transit Unit builds momentum, its early success proves that innovation, flexibility, and officer empowerment can yield tangible results. The unit’s next steps will involve continued collaboration, infrastructure improvements, and ongoing public engagement to ensure downtown Raleigh remains a safe and welcoming space for all.