MBTA - Time for some action!

Working with my fellow blogger at Downtownlynn.com we have drafted and sent the letter below to the MBCR. You can check out some photos here:

http://www.downtownlynn.com/2010/07/lynners-take-out-your-pens-mbta-look.html

Please help us by voicing your concerns. Write letters and call! Contact information at the MBCR can be found here:

http://www.mbcr.net/Our_management_Team.html

*************************************************
John Hogan
Director of Safety and Security, MBCR
89 South Street, 8th Floor
Boston, MA 02111

Dear Mr. Hogan

As members of the Downtown Lynn Neighborhood Association we are writing you today to share our concerns regarding the MBTA property at Central Square in Lynn, MA. Recently the Association met with State Representative Steve Walsh where we brought to his attention the safety, security and cleanliness of the Central Square Commuter Rail garage and platform. Below are three areas that need immediate attention.

Safety and Security: As we are sure you are aware, there was a recent incident in the MBTA parking garage and elevator that involved the attack and rape of a young woman. It is unacceptable and deplorable that more police presence including foot patrols and additional surveillance cameras are not present on the property. It is the duty of the MBTA/MBCR to ensure the safety and protection of their customers and we feel not enough is being done. Our request is that additional surveillance cameras in key areas be installed as well as clearly marked emergency calls boxes that can contact transit police with the touch of a button. Also, additional patrols of the property must be done by Lynn police, transit police or both. Further we request information regarding how often and by whom the surveillance cameras are monitored and what is the location and response time for the transit police to reach the station should they be required.

Infrastructure: There are several areas of the property that are in need of significant repair. Sidewalk tiles that are crumbling pose safety risks to customers where tripping and falling are daily possibilities and could lead to damaging lawsuits. Wall tiles, stairwells and lighting need to be repaired not only for necessary safety but to help create a positive atmosphere in the downtown Lynn area.

Cleanliness: Every day certain areas of the property are abused. Urine, feces and vomit along with condoms, underwear and needles are found by residents almost every day! This is unacceptable. Vomit has stayed so long on the stairwell landing that it dried up in the heat over the course of the week. This is a health and safety hazard to have bodily fluids and all the bacteria that comes with it to remain unattended. We need daily cleaning of these problem areas. While we have seen employees washing down the street level sidewalk near the bus entrance, they do not seem to clean the stairwells and platform areas as they remain filthy. Additionally, it may be wise to have certain areas blocked off at night so trespassers can not enter.

We hope that our concerns are received with swift action. As a community we are more than happy to work together to create a better city for all.