"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
Since it opened in 1995, the Charlotte Transit Center has had a number of ups and downs.
It was designed as a central hub from which commuters could easily travel in and out of uptown Charlotte.
Now while waiting, you could bank, get a bite to eat or even shop.
But recent events in and around the Transit Center have caused concern.
It appears that security is not as strong as it once was.
Nearby residents don't feel quite as safe, and several Transit Mall shops and restaurants have moved out.
Within the last month, we've had pronounced gang activity…a bus rider beaten and robbed…
and a 22-year-old gunned down at a weekend "melee" near the hub.
70 others were picked up by police in one of the city's largest-ever mass arrests.
Both CMPD Chief Rodney Monroe and Mayor Anthony Foxx assure us there's no need to worry about security during the Democratic National Convention, or any other event for that matter.
Recent history suggests otherwise.
We count on Chief Monroe and the CMPD to maintain security throughout the city…including its high-profile uptown area.
Let's make sure that Charlotte's a safe place to live, work, and play for visitors and residents alike.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
