[APRIL 27, 2023/ST. LOUIS, MO] The Bi-State Development Board of Commissioners received an update during its regular April Board meeting from Kevin Scott, General Manager of Security for Bi-State Development, on the progress of the Secure Platform Plan. The Secure Platform Plan is part of a multi-tiered strategy to grow ridership and deliver a stronger transit experience by creating centralized, highly secure customer entrances at all 38 MetroLink stations, as well as the soon to be constructed MetroLink station at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport.
The project has been divided into six construction packages comprised of four to eight MetroLink stations each. Stations have been selected for the first two packages. Package #1 includes the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, College, Emerson Park and Washington Park MetroLink Stations. The design phase for this package is on track to be completed this summer, which will allow for bidding for a construction contractor in late summer 2023. Construction at the four stations in this package is expected to be completed in Spring 2024.
The Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Central West End, Cortex, Grand, Union Station, Civic Center and Delmar Loop MetroLink Stations have been selected for Package #2 of the Secure Platform Plan. The design phase for this package is scheduled to be completed in Fall 2023, with construction at those seven MetroLink stations expected to be completed in Summer 2024.
Metro Transit has been diligently collaborating with design consultant HNTB to identify the most appropriate gating and fencing solutions for the Secure Platform Plan. HNTB’s primary recommendation of a roto-gate, complemented by a swing gate for ADA and emergency access was selected by Metro Transit. Following a comprehensive analysis and scoring criteria, welded-wire fencing was selected that provides both optimal security and visual appeal for MetroLink.
“This new infrastructure is the foundation of our Secure Platform Plan,” said Kevin Scott. “The new welded-wire fencing, roto-gates and swing gates will completely transform the MetroLink system, and in combination with new technology and 1,600 closed-circuit cameras monitored 24/7 through our Real Time Camera Center, we will provide our customers with a superior transit experience that is substantially safer and more secure.”