A few guidelines and improvements that can be made to make taking the bus a safe, fun experience… no matter what time of day.
- Relocate bus stops to areas that maximize visibility and social interaction.
- Ensure bus stops are well lit.
- Avoid too-bright security lighting that creates blinding glare. It is better to use a larger number of lower intensity lights instead.
- Security cameras at bus mall downtown where there currently is not very much natural surveillance at night. (Or do they have these already? Does anyone know?)
- Having community members and organizations ‘adopt a bus stop’ will ensure that they are well This communicates an alert and active presence in the space.
- Place more trees at the bus mall. Outdoor spaces with more trees are seen as significantly more attractive, safer, and more likely to be used than similar spaces without trees.
- Display security system signage at bus mall and on buses.
- Placing amenities such as seating or refreshments at the bus mall helps to attract larger numbers of people.
- Scheduling activities at the bus mall increases proper use, attracts more people and increases the perception that this area is controlled.
- The Broken Windows Theory is a valuable tool in understanding the importance of maintenance in deterring crime at bus stops. Broken Windows theory states that the presence of broken glass will entice vandals to break more windows in the vicinity. The sooner broken glass is fixed, the less likely it is that such vandalism will occur in the future. In the same way, the faster graffiti is painted over, the less likely one is to repeat because no one saw what has been done. Having a positive image in the community shows a sense of pride and self-worth.
Better Transit YXE 