SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - We continue our coverage on Union Station as officials seek solutions for disturbances by large groups of juveniles. Western Mass News headed over to Union Station with more about what the city is now looking to do and how riders say it could be handled.

Riders are no stranger to how these large groups of young kids impact their commutes, and the city is now trying to find a different approach. Mayor Domenic Sarno’s passionate press conference on June 2nd called for action against large groups of young people who’ve made the transit hub a major hang out spot. Regular riders, like Tiana Suarez, said a crackdown is needed for kids causing disturbances, “if there are kids being loud. Or fights. In the bus station. Maybe their parents should be held accountable. If your kid does something major. Then pay a fine. Maybe the kids would think about that. “

Springfield Police said that 11 kids were arrested at the station in the month of May. According to Mass. Representative Gonzalez, the key points of the monthly Union Station meeting this week shifted focus to why these large groups gather at union, and away from any penalties, including those who are following the rules and rely on programs like free buses.

These ideas included: schools issuing IDs for students, to help identify younger people more effectively. More youth programs at Union Station like mental health.

Mayor Sarno said meetings like this are very helpful, and he wants to see a system that is focused on that holds kids causing problems responsible for their actions, “as long as it’s a structured program, an accountability program, a checks and balances type program that respects our seniors and disabled, handicapped, people that need to go work, mothers with children on there, students that are doing the right thing,” he also emphasized how important it is for parents to help, “and I need parents to step up. Parents need to know where their kids are. They need to have some accountability in this.”

At the meeting, the PVTA shared that 20% of their current trespassing orders are for young people.

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