Bridge Calls for Backup

The Forest Glen pedestrian bridge (left) along Georgia Avenue is getting beefed-up security after two recent robberies there, The Gazette reports.

Improved lighting and video surveillance might do the trick, as well as a deterrence "through environmental design," Silver Spring's top cop said at a citizens advisory board meeting on Monday.

"I want people to be able to use the bridge," said Betsy Davis, commander of the county PD's third district. Davis added that women in particular might not dig the new $7.7 million bridge, which connects Montgomery Hills with the Forest Glen Metro station.

"It's cause for some concern," she said.

Busted lights on the bridge could use some fixing, and security cameras could be installed, Davis suggested. The camera feed wouldn't be monitored 24-7, but the video could be reviewed if needed, she said.

Marilyn Seitz, an advisory board member, also suggested using email to let area residents know when a crime has gone down, The Gazette writes.

Last week, two people were robbed on the quarter-mile bridge in broad daylight. In both cases, the suspect hightailed it toward the Forest Glen Metro station. No one has been charged with the crimes.

Mad props go out to the photojournalists at Montgomery Blair High School.

"Police to Target Forest Glen Bridge for Added Patrols" (The Gazette)