Pinthouse Pizza
Transit Troubles
RECEIVED Fri., May 17, 2024
Dear Editor,
In answer to the gentleman who wrote about free bus service for the homeless and opposing increased security measures ["Opinion: Cap Metro Must Safeguard No-Cost Transit for Unhoused Austinites," Feb. 16]: I have had several experiences with homeless bus riders. They are sometimes drunk and start fights on the bus. One day, as my young son and I were riding the bus home from school in the afternoon, two such men started a fight in front of us. One of these drunk men hit my son and made his mouth bleed. We had to get off the bus to tend his cut. On other occasions, mentally ill homeless men have threatened us at bus stops or on the bus. Absolutely, there are people living on the street who are respectful and responsible bus riders. But several homeless persons are actually homeless due to drug and alcohol addictions. We have to deal with soiled seats, spilled beer on the bus floors, and dangerous behaviors. I think that all bus drivers and bus riders deserve that extra help and protection. We should be able to go about our work and errands safely.
In answer to the gentleman who wrote about free bus service for the homeless and opposing increased security measures ["Opinion: Cap Metro Must Safeguard No-Cost Transit for Unhoused Austinites," Feb. 16]: I have had several experiences with homeless bus riders. They are sometimes drunk and start fights on the bus. One day, as my young son and I were riding the bus home from school in the afternoon, two such men started a fight in front of us. One of these drunk men hit my son and made his mouth bleed. We had to get off the bus to tend his cut. On other occasions, mentally ill homeless men have threatened us at bus stops or on the bus. Absolutely, there are people living on the street who are respectful and responsible bus riders. But several homeless persons are actually homeless due to drug and alcohol addictions. We have to deal with soiled seats, spilled beer on the bus floors, and dangerous behaviors. I think that all bus drivers and bus riders deserve that extra help and protection. We should be able to go about our work and errands safely.
Ada Chavez