Concerns over public safety at Houston's transit centers took center stage during the recent Public Safety Committee meeting, as officials discussed the challenges posed by homelessness in these areas. Council members highlighted complaints from residents about homeless individuals congregating at bus stops, creating uncertainty for commuters.

Vice Chair Jackson emphasized the need for data on incidents at transit locations to better understand the situation in various districts. "Having those hot spots will help us know where to deploy our volunteers," she stated, advocating for community engagement initiatives to tackle crime and improve safety.

Metro officials acknowledged the issue, noting that their service area spans 14 cities and four counties, making it crucial to gather and analyze data effectively. They promised to work on providing detailed information about incidents at bus stops, which could aid in developing targeted safety measures.

Additionally, discussions included the Metro's care unit, which responds to calls regarding homeless individuals needing assistance. While the unit's capacity is currently limited, officials expressed a desire to expand its size to better serve the community. They encouraged residents to report concerns, assuring that even non-clinical officers are trained to assist in these situations.

As Houston prepares for the upcoming FIFA events, concerns about increased ridership and potential displacement of homeless individuals were raised. Officials assured that they are planning to enhance safety measures in high-traffic areas to accommodate the influx of visitors while addressing the needs of the homeless population.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving public safety and community engagement, with officials promising to deliver more comprehensive data and initiatives in future sessions.