Lancaster Metrolink Station increases security due to growing homeless issue

LANCASTER, Calif. (KABC) -- New security measures were unveiled Tuesday at the Metrolink Station in Lancaster following concerns about a growing homeless population there.

"The Metrolink was being used as a transportation vehicle to bring the homeless up here," said Lancaster Vice Mayor Marvin Crist. "People are asking them to leave their communities, the homeless from other communities, and saying, 'Take the Metrolink and ride it until it ends.' And it ends in Lancaster."

Crist says Lancaster's homeless population went up 393 percent in a year.

"What we're trying to do is take care of our own homeless, take care of the people that are here and not be overwhelmed," said Crist.

The problem got so out of hand that there were talks of closing the only Metrolink station in Lancaster.

"This is a very important station to us and we want to make sure the city understands our commitment to the station," said Metrolink spokesman Jeff Lustgarten.

Metrolink and the city are now working together to make some changes. Surveillance cameras will be installed; a fence will be built around the station; and only passengers with a valid ticket will be allowed on the platform. Sheriff's deputies will also increase their patrols in and around the station to keep patrons safe.

To help with the crowds and the influx of the homeless from other areas, Metrolink says it will be cracking down on checking tickets.