New Jersey Transit is teaming up with a neighborhood watch social media site in an effort to make traveling with the agency safer.
The transit agency has teamed with the website NextDoor, which is a social media platform that is part of a community police effort.
NJ Transit officials say that they hope that the partnership will help decrease rail road crime and promote interactions with those who live near NJ Transit stations. Bus terminals will also be included.
NextDoor calls itself a "private social network." Neighbors are using the app and website to organize neighborhood watch groups, look for a lost dog or get the word out about a crimes in the area.
Transit officials say that the app will be used as a quick way to get information out to riders and the public.
"The partnership will improve the communication with residents who live on the rail and light rail line and train stations and bus terminals. At NJT, we are always looking for innovative ways to keep our communities safe,” said Executive Director Kevin Corbett.
Users will receive notifications from transit police and NJ Transit can also communicate with them about criminal activity, like theft and vandalism. The app will also provide information about how to teach kids about the dangers of railroad tracks and promote interaction with local patrol officers.
Transit officials also say they want to maintain positive relationships with the communities they keep safe.