Surveys on the Perception of Fear, Disorder and Personal Security

For the MTA, SRBI conducted the 1994 Homeless Outreach Program Evaluation (HOPE) Survey a survey measuring passenger reactions to homelessness in the subway system. SRBI deployed interviewers onto subway platforms throughout the system to administer a 5 minute questionnaire. An analysis making comparisons to previous benchmarks indicated that MTA efforts to address the problem were having a positive impact.

In the Three Station Environment Study noted above, one of the primary objectives in upgrading these subway stations was to improve user's overall sense of security. Elements tested included improved lighting, sight lines, signage and emergency communications systems throughout the subways stations. In most cases, SRBI was able to identify significantly higher security ratings and related perceptions of comfort and order.