Boom car parties for communities along the Delaware River continue to frustrate residents.
Over the summer, State Sen. Troy Singleton and his colleagues in Burlington County sent a letter to Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urging her to crack down on boom car parties, which have “tortured our communities along the Delaware River for years.”
“As you may know, for years, the noise pollution emanating from the boom car parties in Philadelphia has kept families awake all night long, on both sides of the river,” Singleton said in the letter.
“Unfortunately, these gatherings have increased in frequency, no longer just a nuisance in the summer months, but all year long, and not just on the weekend, but often during the week as well.”
Philadelphia Public Safety Director Adam Geer recently responded to Singleton and said he had received correspondence from Maple Shade’s Susan E. Danson, the township manager.
“Please be aware that we have heard your concerns,” Geer noted, “along with the concerns of our own residents. And we are taking action.”
Geer explained that the Philly police are down 1,600 officers and need to triage their response, with gun violence and other serious crimes sometimes taking priority over quality-of-life issues. He relayed issues in the city with boom cars parties, along with illegal ATVs, dirt bikes and car meets.
Singleton recently outlined the Philadelphia police department’s efforts to combat the issue:
- Decentralized response: The department was using a centralized approach to respond to boom car parties but after concerns, they changed it back to a decentralized response, meaning respective districts where the parties are happening will have to respond. They believe this will be more effective.
- Aviation and marine patrols: The department wants to be proactive in preventing the parties. To that end, they are using aviation and marine units, when applicable, to monitor parties at boat ramps and parking lots, and to help disperse gatherings.
- Zero tolerance: Most importantly, for the past three weeks they have a “zero tolerance” policy – previously warnings were issued. Now if there is probable cause, the $2,000 fines will be issued.
- Partnership with Burlington County Sheriff’s Office: The office has been a ready and willing partner in assisting Philadelphia. This potential partnership will continue to be explored.
“We believe this new strategy will significantly improve the quality of life for both our residents as well as our neighbors in New Jersey,” Geer said of the recent efforts.
“… We will keep trying to find a solution that hopefully brings peace and quiet to our riverfront neighborhoods,” Singleton said.
