Amtrak to start with random bag checks

After years of behind-the-scenes measures, noticeable transportation-security efforts at Amtrak stations will now be implemented.

Last week, Amtrak announced that new security procedures, including random bag checks, will be deployed at stations across the country to "minimize the risk of terrorist threats," according to a press release.

Amtrak said efforts were not in response to any specific threat.

In the wake of this new policy, many Penn students are wondering what effect this might have on their holiday travels or spring break plans.

"It could potentially be a hassle," said Stephen Abrams, a College freshman. "On holiday weekends, it's already pretty hectic."

In Philadelphia, 25,000 commuters go through 30th Street Station each day, with connections made to stations throughout the East Coast.

To safely check these large numbers, Amtrak is using its new "Mobile Security Team" to randomly check bags, screen passengers and patrol stations.

Under current policies, Amtrak utilizes surveillance systems, random identification checks and uniformed and plain-clothes officers on trains and in stations to monitor potential threats.

Many students said they think the new procedures are necessary precautions in a post-Sept. 11 world.

"It'll probably slow the process down, but for the better," College freshman Joanna Burkitt said, citing security needs and adding that she was "surprised" random bag searches had not been done before.

Amtrak spokeswoman Karina Romero said the company has made security improvements since Sept. 11, but those have "been invisible to passengers."

Romero added that the new security efforts will not tamper with travel times.

The random checks will be "less than a one-minute process," she said. Romero also said, "on-time performance is a priority" for Amtrak.

Wharton sophomore Chris Kemendo said he also thinks travel "won't be slowed down" too much and that people will still prefer taking Amtrak over flying.

"Sometimes it's good to be able to take things on trains that you often can't take onto planes," Kemendo said. "But I'm really surprised that they didn't [start checking bags] a long time ago."

Dave Frankenfield and Alex Lebow, both College freshmen who travel in the Northeast, said they view the increased security measures as useful, despite potential hassles.

Lebow said the steps were "worth it" in the wake of the 2004 Madrid train bombings, during which 191 passengers were killed in Spain by an al-Qaeda-inspired terrorist cell.

"It's just a trade-off based on how it is put into effect and implemented," Frankenfield said.

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