Wednesday, January 28, 2009

METRO concerned with the Sherriff’s Office new inmate transportation plan

Since yesterday’s announcement by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office to transport inmates on light rail, METRO has received passenger feedback expressing concern for their personal and family safety.

METRO’s goal is to provide a safe, secure and reliable journey for its passengers. Any situation that creates concern for passengers and discourages ridership is of great concern to METRO.

The METRO light rail vehicle, much like any public transit vehicle, is not a controlled environment and not designed for this application. Transporting inmates using public transportation is not a common practice nationally and has not occurred locally on the Valley’s bus system.

It is anticipated that the METRO Board of Directors will consider a resolution requesting the Sherriff’s Office to reconsider this proposal in light of concerns expressed by Valley residents. METRO would welcome an opportunity to discuss with the Sherriff’s Office better solutions that meet everyone’s needs.

Source: Metro Rail

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