Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock visited the Downtown Metro Train Station on Friday night, July 12, 2024, to observe the closing procedures and meet with Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputies. Arriving at 11:45 p.m., Mayor Brock engaged with deputies to receive a detailed briefing on the protocols in place and to discuss the city's ongoing challenges with homelessness and public safety.
During the evening's operations, deputies conducted a thorough end-of-day sweep of the Metro train system following the last train's arrival. A total of five trains were scheduled to reach the Santa Monica Downtown Station, with the first train arriving around 12:15 a.m., followed by the remaining trains approximately 15 minutes apart. As part of the sweep, deputies boarded each train to inform passengers that it was the end of the line and the train was now closed. Many passengers, often sleeping, were woken by deputies and asked to exit. The trains were then returned to the service station for routine maintenance and cleaning, with service resuming at 4 a.m. the following morning. The Sheriff's Deputies demonstrated professionalism, kindness, and courtesy while ensuring firmness and efficiency in clearing the trains.
Mayor Brock observed the deputies' procedures firsthand, including the challenges faced with unhoused individuals using the train as a shelter. In a candid discussion, Mayor Brock and the deputies addressed the increasing strain on the city due to homelessness and drug addiction. The mayor noted, "It's unsustainable for the city, with all the homeless and drug addicts coming here every night off the trains. There's no services at night for them, and they either go down to the beach and sleep or wander through our neighborhoods."
Deputies echoed these concerns, highlighting the burden on local resources. "We're inundated, and it's putting a burden on the fire resources, police, and businesses," one deputy explained. They also pointed out the economic impact, mentioning that "30% of our Pro Santa Monica Place just got foreclosed on, Wells Fargo gave up their $300 million loan, and REI just left."
The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by local businesses and residents. Mayor Brock emphasized the need for more public safety funding and criticized the slow response to public safety issues by some city council members. "We need to take 4% of the general fund, sequester it, and do stuff to help public safety," he asserted.
The mayor and deputies agreed on the necessity of tougher laws and more visible police presence to ensure safety and deter criminal activities. They also discussed the need for comprehensive solutions, including increased mental health services, better housing options, and stronger community support. Mayor Brock highlighted the importance of making the city safer for residents and visitors, stressing that the primary responsibility of city officials is to ensure public safety.
The downtown Santa Monica Station serves as the terminal stop for the Metro line, making it a crucial point for authorities to ensure that all passengers exit the train upon reaching its final destination. This measure is significant due to reports of some unhoused individuals remaining on board for extended periods.
E Line service hours are from approximately 4:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. daily, with trains operating every 8 minutes during peak hours, Monday to Friday. During midday on weekdays and weekends, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., trains run every 10 minutes. Night and early morning service is approximately every 20 minutes daily.
The increased law enforcement presence at the station is part of a broader effort to address concerns related to criminal activity, instill a sense of safety among commuters, and restore confidence in the Metro system. This proactive approach aims to deter criminal behavior and encourage ridership without fear.
Authorities urge passengers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unsafe situations promptly. In emergencies, passengers should dial 9-1-1. For non-emergency security concerns, passengers can reach security personnel at 888.950.7233. Additionally, passengers can use the train intercom or station intercoms, marked by red signs on station platforms, to alert Metro staff to any incidents.
26 авг 2024
