RTD Transit Police assist Atlanta transit agency with patrols during World Cup games
DENVER (June 17, 2026) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) Transit Police is assisting the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) police department by providing officers during the FIFA World Cup 2026 games. RTD Transit Police (RTD-PD) responded to MARTA’s request for additional support to help ensure community safety during the world’s largest sporting event. Approximately 500,000 visitors are expected in Atlanta for the series of matches taking place June 11 through July 15.
“RTD and the RTD Transit Police Department are committed to supporting MARTA during the World Cup through an enhanced police presence and coordinated public safety operations,” RTD Chief of Police and Emergency Management Steve Martingano said. “As an international event drawing visitors from around the world, the World Cup brings significantly increased ridership, diverse crowds, and elevated security demands. Strong collaboration across transit agencies is essential to ensure a safe and seamless experience for local and international travelers.”
The RTD Transit Police began assisting with patrols in Atlanta on June 12 and are rotating four or five officers weekly. In total, 21 officers will support patrol coverage through July 16 to strengthen officer visibility and community safety during the high-volume events.
MARTA is experiencing an additional 45,000 daily customers during the World Cup. To meet the increased demand, the agency requested support from seven law enforcement agencies, specifically reaching out to transit agencies not involved in hosting World Cup events.
“As the world comes to Atlanta, MARTA Police stand united in our commitment to safety, service, and collaboration. This is a unique opportunity for transit professionals to come together, serve the public, and demonstrate the strength of our partnerships,” MARTA Public Information Officer and Police Officer Sacoria Jackson said. “By supporting one another and sharing our expertise, we create a safer, stronger transit experience for every rider who depends on us. Together, we help ensure that visitors and residents alike can travel with confidence throughout this big event.”
RTD-PD previously assisted MARTA during Super Bowl LIII in 2019 and routinely assists other law enforcement and transit agencies as staffing allows. Nationally, this has included sending officers to Washington D.C. to assist with patrols during the past five presidential inaugurations. Locally, Transit Police assisted the Boulder Police Department in the emergency response to the attack on Pearl Street on June 1, 2025.
RTD Transit Police also serve in an advisory role for law enforcement partners, including sharing Crime Prevention through Environmental Design strategies – such as the Customer Experience Elevator Program RTD has implemented, proven to reduce security-related calls at RTD stations – and co-responder units implemented to support a safe and welcoming transit environment for customers.
Martingano emphasized the importance of collaboration among police departments. “By working together, we can share best practices, strengthen situational awareness, and improve our overall readiness for large‑scale global events,” he said. “This once-in-a-career opportunity underscores the commitment by RTD-PD to deliver a safe, reliable, and well‑coordinated transit environment by assisting MARTA throughout the World Cup.”