Detroit, Michigan – As the bustling city of Detroit strives to improve its public transit system, safety concerns at the Rosa Parks Transit Center Downtown have caught the attention of local advocate Michael Cunningham. With a passion for public transportation, Cunningham has dedicated years to distributing free bus tickets at the transit center. Despite his advocacy, Cunningham acknowledges the city’s ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of riders at bus stops.
A disabled individual himself, Cunningham has experienced firsthand the risks that come with using public transportation. Recounting two separate attacks he faced at the downtown transit center in the past two years, Cunningham highlights the vulnerability that many riders face. The incidents of violence at the transit center, ranging from physical assaults to threatening behavior, paint a troubling picture of the risks associated with using public transport in Detroit.
The Detroit Transit Police, tasked with safeguarding bus stations and vehicles, face their own set of challenges. With dwindling staffing levels and limited resources, the department struggles to maintain a strong presence at the transit center. Chief Ricky Brown acknowledges the shortcomings in staffing, emphasizing the department’s financial constraints compared to larger law enforcement agencies.
The need for enhanced security measures became evident following a violent attack captured on surveillance cameras at the transit center in March. Prompted by growing concerns over safety, the Detroit Police Department announced plans to assume full-time patrol duties at the city’s transit centers, buses, and QLine. This shift in responsibilities aims to address the rising incidents of assaults and provide a more robust security presence for passengers and transit staff.
Deputy Chief Arnold Williams underscores the importance of reducing assaults and ensuring the safety of individuals using public transportation. While acknowledging the efforts of the transit officers, Williams expresses confidence that the Detroit Police Department’s increased staffing will lead to a safer environment for passengers and bus drivers. The upcoming changes in patrol responsibilities offer hope for a more secure transit experience in Detroit, as advocates like Michael Cunningham eagerly anticipate the impact of these measures.