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Public commenters urge council to protect transit access and raise policing and safety concerns
Summary
Multiple members of the public used the March 25 council public-comment period to press officials on transit service reductions affecting seniors and people with disabilities, describe a police use-of-force incident in neighboring McKeesport, and call for investigations or action.
Several speakers during public comment at the March 25 meeting urged City Council to act on transit service cuts and accessibility concerns, and raised policing and public-safety issues. Comments covered alleged service reductions by the Port Authority, the impact on seniors and disabled residents, neighborhood safety incidents and a request for investigations into alleged misconduct.
Bernadette, who identified herself as concerned about Port Authority service changes, said proposed cuts are "targeted towards seniors and disabled" residents in neighborhoods including Banksville and Greentree Road, and described bus-stop and service-audit concerns. She warned that reduced service would affect access to grocery stores, senior centers and houses of worship.
Special Agent Sunshine also criticized proposed cuts, saying he heard that "43% is being slashed," and warned of consequences including reduced access to work and services for people who rely on buses.
Lindsey Bailey addressed public safety in McKeesport, a neighboring jurisdiction, recounting an incident she said involved a 73-year-old Black veteran who she said was injured after an encounter with police officers. Bailey said there is a video and that the chief has indicated officers did not break policy; Bailey said, "This man could have died. This is unacceptable." Her comments asked the council to take note of policing and accountability concerns in the region.
Yvonne F. Brown spoke about accessibility and representation, urging council to listen to elders and residents who have trouble accessing services and bus lines in hilly neighborhoods. Jacob Poole made an extended public-comment request asking the city to undertake a census of trafficking victims — a claim he tied to his personal history and asked the council to investigate.
Council did not record a formal response from staff during the public-comment period; the meeting proceeded to committee reports after the speakers concluded.
Ending: Speakers asked council to engage with transit agencies and other authorities and to schedule follow-up briefings; council later announced standing committee and cable-cast discussions on homelessness and older-adult wellness and scheduled related meetings where transit and access issues could be raised.
