Editorial

TriMet cameras will reduce station crime

The Gresham Outlook, Jun 8, 2007, Updated Oct 30, 2009

Another contributor to crime in Gresham (see editorial above) is the MAX light rail line.

We say that with some trepidation because we believe the overall benefits of mass transit far outweigh its negatives. But it’s clear from observation as well as citizen complaints that light-rail stations can attract nuisance-level – and sometimes, serious – crime.

It is encouraging, therefore, to see that TriMet is taking action in Gresham to improve security at light-rail stations. Courtesy of a $560,000 federal grant, the agency will be able to install cameras at 14 additional stations, including five in Gresham. The surveillance will allow police officers to monitor stations and respond to or follow up on incidents that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The cameras are a welcome addition to these stations. However, they are not a cure-all and they should be the beginning – not the end – of discussions of how TriMet can improve safety around its stations in Gresham.

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