CobbLinc to deploy security guards at key transfer stations by February
Security guards coming to Cobb County bus stops
One metro Atlanta county will beef up security at its bus stops. Cobb County officials say they looked at what is happening across the country when they made their decision.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. - Cobb County is beefing up security at its CobbLinc bus stops. On Tuesday, the Board of Commissioners approved a plan to post security guards at the two transfer stations.
"Security guards at the bus station are needed," said Shawn Watkins.
Watkins rides CobbLinc every day. He says he has seen a few things that make him feel unsafe.
"I've seen frequent drug use, fights, even fights with the bus drivers. You want to mind your own business, just look forward and get to where you're supposed to be," said Watkins.
Soon, security guards will be patrolling CobbLinc's two very busy transfer stations. One is near Cumberland Mall, and the other is on South Marietta Parkway.
"Safety and security for patrons, folks using our system as well as the bus drivers who are operating the system. This is really to provide the eyes and ears, boots on the ground," said Drew Raessler, Cobb DOT director.
Raessler says they have been considering adding security guards for a while. He says transit systems across the country are seeing incidents of physical violence or threats of violence.
Just this month, a MARTA bus driver in DeKalb County was shot and killed. Police say the shooting was over a dispute about the $2.50 fare. Three teens were arrested.
"Certainly, the incidents we've seen locally and across the country have added import to the purpose of doing this," said Raessler.
The unarmed guards will patrol the stations and respond to security threats and emergencies. They'll alert the police if necessary.
"If something does arise where we need an appropriate response, we got great responsive partners in Marietta and the county, so we'll let them do their work, they're the professionals," said Raessler.
Sasha M. says she already feels safer knowing the security guards will soon be out here.
"It makes me feel very secure, especially me being a woman," said Sasha.
The cost will be $300,000 for a year. Half the money will come from grants, the rest from Cobb's transit fund. The security guards are expected to be in place by the end of February.
The Source: This article is based on original reporting by FOX 5's Denise Dillon.