TGE Police Substation Still Not Open
In April of this year I linked to a KSDK news story about a new police substation in the Tower Grove East neighborhood that was to open soon. The part I talked about was the $14K in Vespa scooters for officers to help them maneuver around the neighborhood, getting places quickly and quietly. From the KSDK report:
Alderman Reed hopes the substation and the scooters will be a crime deterrent in an area that’s known past problems, “It will send a signal to the bad guys that we’re open for business. We’re open to stopping all the bad activity.”
The alderman worked hard to make this happen and purchased the scooters with Ward 6 funds. They cost about $14,000. The bikes can travel more than 100 miles per hour and maneuver between buildings.
Five months later the substation is still not open, it seems the lease details have not yet been worked out with the building owner. Residents, once excited about the substation, are now frustrated at the bureaucracy for taking so long and pointing fingers at other departments. What kind of signal does this send to home owners in the area?
The scooters exist. Well, at least one does. I saw it on the morning after the arson fires in Lafayette Square, also in the 6th ward. Alderman Lewis Reed is considering a run for President of the Board of Alderman in March. Regardless, the 6th Ward seat is up for election at the same time.
From my understanding, you should talk to David Dye, the person who developed the building. He had agreed to provide certain security features to the building and has failed to do so. Alderman Reed and the Police have contacted him several times as to when this will be completed, and so far he has continually dragged his feet on finishing the building.
I have spoken to David Dye. He and Alderman Reed are at a virtual stand-off over who is supposed to do what. Meanwhile, Alderman Reed’s assistant is supposedly sending out a lease, fixing last minute problems, and getting the thing done. Five months of last minute stuff doesn’t cut it. Alderman Reed is silent on all of this, leaving everything to his staff.
Wow, a 100mph vespa?? Not sure I would want to go down the alleys and between buildings at 100mph on a vespa.