New Bedford Could Learn From Boston Public Urination Response Plan

The Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) is stepping up to address the problem of public urination in MBTA elevators in Boston. Perhaps there is something for officials in New Bedford to learn here.

The Boston Herald reported that "The T plans to pilot a new program in mid-August, which will consist of placing urine detection sensors in four downtown elevators: Chinatown, Broadway, Charles MGH, and North Station."

T spokesperson Meghan Collins said in determining which elevators to use in the pilot program, a number of things were considered, including how often each elevator is urinated in.

The censors will notify teams of "ambassadors" and cleaners that someone has urinated in the elevator. The ambassadors will collect data while the cleaners scrub the elevator cab.

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Collins appeared to hint that those peeing in the elevators are T customers who simply can't wait to get to a restroom. I'm not sure I'm buying that, but in any event, we'll see how the pilot program works out.

Collins said the urine is not only unhealthy but it damages the elevators, too.

New Bedford has a problem with vagrants peeing just about anywhere they want downtown.

It might be difficult to put sensors in the streets and door fronts but perhaps they could work in the Elm Street and Zeiterion Theater parking garages.

Just recently, electric vehicle outlets in the Z lot were damaged by what an employee said were homeless individuals who spend nights in the parking garage.

City Council President Ian Abreu said he witnessed a man defecating in the Z elevator. Perhaps we could put a sensor there – and a Stick Ups air freshener, too.