“Some readers might be interested in the First Street Tunnel’s response to ongoing armed robberies in northern Bloomingdale”

Photo by PoPville flickr user Phil

“Dear PoPville,

Some readers might be interested in the First Street Tunnel’s response to ongoing armed robberies in northern Bloomingdale. As I understand their message, they intend to make no changes in light of these assaults. I have contact McDuffie’s office to request further action.”

We are very sorry to learn of last evening’s robberies on Channing Street, Adams and First Streets. Most importantly, we are distressed to learn that your friend was a victim in one of these robberies.

DC Water and Skanska Jay Dee have been working with the Metropolitan Police Department throughout the construction of the First Street Tunnel. MPD has authority for policing the area and we work with them should they require access to our construction staging areas (CSA). In addition, we hired off-duty MPD officers to patrol the CSAs (20 hours per week), and have site security during all off hours, including weekends, at our jobsites and the Bryant Street Alternative Parking Area. Also, to improve security around the immediate vicinity of our work areas, we installed lights around the CSAs and mirrors to prevent pedestrian blind spots. However, our security guards are not authorized to make arrests or use force. If they see something suspicious, they report it to MPD. Similarly, concerns related to crime in the neighborhood should be directed to MPD.

Please know that your concerns about criminal behavior are deeply troubling to all of us and we continue to look to MPD for the safety and protection of the entire community.