“Zero Tolerance” Policy Implemented at Binghamton Bus Station

Security officers are working to address safety concerns in the area of the DMV office and the bus station in downtown Binghamton.

Both Chenango Street facilities are operated by Broome County. In recent weeks, there have been a growing number of complaints about people hanging out, smoking marijuana and playing loud music near them.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said over the past year, more people had been congregating outside the transportation facility. He said county officials discussed the situation with employees, along with those who use the DMV office and the bus station.

Garnar said efforts have been made to assist people who may need housing or mental health assistance.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program on Thursday, the county  executive said "over the last couple of weeks, we really shifted to a zero tolerance policy because we understand people's concerns."

Garnar said he believes "a very big change has happened" in recent days in the area of the transportation center and DMV office. He said the "situation's getting better."

The county executive said county security, public transportation and social services officials have been meeting over the past few months to develop plans to assist those who need help.

Garnar noted there now are three full-time county security officers assigned to the Chenango Street bus station.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.