Raleigh public works crews began installing security fencing on a breezeway that connects Wilmington Street to the Moore Square GoRaleigh bus station early this week. The temporary fences are slated to be completed by Tuesday and will run along both sides of the tunnel.
Purpose and expected impact
City officials say the fencing is intended to deter loitering, public alcohol consumption, large groups blocking the sidewalk and any drug‑related activity that has been reported in the corridor. “We are going to be installing a fence on both sides of the tunnel,” said Patel, a spokesperson for GoRaleigh. “The fence will have doors, and the doors access will really be for our police department as well as our private security and our GoRaleigh operators.”
The Raleigh Police Department and GoRaleigh hope the physical barrier will help officers focus resources elsewhere. “What we’re trying to do is prevent some of the loitering in that area, and have more of the foot traffic inside the GoRaleigh station, where most of our officers are,” said Captain Matthew Chestnut.
Safety context
Police data show a sharp increase in service calls near the station. Between February 1 and August 19, the department logged 1,580 calls for service in the area, including eight reports of aggravated assault—one involving a firearm and six involving knives. The fencing project follows a recent North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement operation that resulted in dozens of arrests and more than 130 felony charges in a summer sweep around Moore Square, a three‑minute walk from the bus hub.
Community response
While city officials emphasize safety, some riders have voiced concerns about accessibility. “I feel like it would be an inconvenience for disabled people and the people who travel here often. You know, it’s kind of easily accessible to the other streets, and I just feel like it’s a good thing if they keep it,” said bus rider Tysheem Blackman. The city has not indicated any changes to curb cuts or door mechanisms that would address those concerns.
Future security plans
Patel indicated that the fencing is the first step in a broader safety strategy. “When we feel like it’s needed, we will look into adding more security resources,” he said, adding that additional cameras are planned for the GoRaleigh station and the adjacent parking deck. “That’s likely to help out as well,” Patel added.
GoRaleigh serves roughly 14,000 to 17,000 riders daily with about 65 bus routes operating through the downtown hub. City leaders hope the new fencing, combined with increased surveillance, will create a safer environment for commuters while preserving the accessibility of the transit system.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
