When public transit meets public health

Naloxone saves lives. It is used to reverse the effects of opioids in overdose cases, and across San Mateo County, increasing access to this life-saving medication has become a critical part of overdose response efforts in public spaces — including transit centers used by thousands of riders every day. 

As a public transit agency, SamTrans recognizes the importance of being prepared to respond to medical emergencies and support community health. In October 2024, San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS), along with Dr. Ronni Brown, reached out to SamTrans to begin a conversation about expanding naloxone awareness, access and training. The SamTrans Safety and Security team welcomed the opportunity and soon joined the San Mateo County Overdose Prevention Coalition, with Omar Brown, acting deputy director of safety, serving as county co-chair. 

From the start, the focus has been on turning awareness into meaningful action. SamTrans created voluntary guidelines for employees, produced a naloxone training video led by Brown, and hosted two outreach events — one at SamTrans headquarters in San Carlos and another at Sequoia Station in Redwood City. 

These outreach events created space for open, practical conversations between employees, community members and county partners about recognizing overdoses, using naloxone and connecting people to available resources. Through this partnership, SamTrans also received a naloxone stand box from BHRS, now located at Sequoia Station. Similar boxes can be found in public libraries, schools and jail lobbies throughout the county, helping ensure naloxone is accessible when and where it’s needed most. 

“This work is about showing up for our community,” said Brown. “Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, including on public transit. When people are trained and naloxone is available, lives can be saved.” 

The program is currently open to Teamster-represented and administrative employees, and participation is voluntary and free. SamTrans is also working with the Amalgamated Transit Union to expand the program to include all employees, including operators. 

Strong support from SamTrans employees and the agency’s leadership team reflects a shared commitment to safety, preparedness and the well-being of the communities SamTrans serves every day.