The numbers say that trains and buses are still overwhelmingly safe, but the nature of crime on public transit may be changing. Since the killing on Aug. 22, authorities in Charlotte have announced changes, including more officers in the transit system. Justice Department cuts to public safety grants leave police and nonprofits scrambling Hundreds of public safety grants cut, worth $500 million, funded initiatives like drug treatment and gun violence prevention programs. Public transit systems try to avoid a ‘death spiral’ as remote work hurts ridership Big public transit systems are warning of deep service cuts as they struggle to make up lost revenue from fewer riders. The governor’s remarks reflect the complexity of the challenge facing public transit systems across the country.