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Is train station safe for teen during the day?

My 14 year-old will be coming back from a camp in Sequoia this summer and one option is taking a train from Fresno to the Bay Area. He would likely be alone for an hour or so in the station.

I have no sense of what the station or surrounding neighborhood is like so I'm wondering if that's a bad idea.

Thanks!

The Fresno Amtrak station is located at 2650 Tulare Street in downtown Fresno. During the daytime, it is generally safe, but like many urban train stations, there are a few factors to keep in mind when considering sending a 14-year-old alone.

The station is staffed and monitored, and daytime trains usually see families, commuters, and travelers passing through. However, the surrounding downtown area can feel somewhat deserted in spots, and there have occasionally been reports of panhandlers or petty theft. While violent incidents are uncommon during the day, it is not a heavily trafficked or tourist-focused station.

Here are some considerations for your teen’s safety:

  • Ensure your teen knows to stay inside the main station area and near staff or other passengers rather than wandering outside.
  • Have a charged phone with important contacts saved and instructions on what to do if anything feels unsafe.
  • Review the train schedule carefully to minimize wait times in the station.
  • Consider contacting Amtrak in advance to confirm if there are staff members available to assist unaccompanied minors during boarding and departure. Amtrak does have an unaccompanied minor program for children under a certain age, though for a 14-year-old it may be optional.

Alternative options to reduce any risk include:

  • Having an adult or older teen friend accompany him for the hour in the station.
  • Exploring bus or shuttle options that might drop him off closer to his destination, reducing time in the station.
  • Scheduling the train during busier times of the day, when there is more foot traffic and staff presence.

Overall, while it’s not an unusually dangerous area, sending a 14-year-old alone does carry some risk. Careful preparation, clear instructions, and possibly having someone meet him or accompany him for part of the journey will make it much safer and give peace of mind.

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