Classical music at Pierce Elevated aims to improve safety and deter homeless, METRO says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- From the revving of passing cars and METRO rails, to the ear-catching sound of an orchestral composition, this particular mix of sound under the Pierce Elevated underpass at Main and Fannin leaves many asking, why is it there?

"That music, why are they playing that music?" Thomas, a man experiencing homelessness under Pierce Elevated, said.

METRO said they mounted these speakers in November 2023, taking inspiration from other state transit departments. METRO said they wanted to deter homeless people from loitering and camping in the underpasses and wanted to improve employee safety at nearby parking lots.

"It got a lot of people up from under here cause it used to be piled up under here," David, a man experiencing homelessness under Pierce Elevated, said.

Pierce Elevated is in the boundary of Houston City Councilwoman Carolyn Evans-Shabbazz's district. She was unaware of the music until our report, but said she's open to the idea.

"I commend them for trying, and again, I would like to see the research. It's been there for two years. There should be some data or something we can look at to see if this is successful," Evans-Shabazz said.

After METRO confirmed its role in the music, Eyewitness News followed up to ask if there was proof the music was accomplishing its intended purpose, but we're waiting to hear back.

While some may have moved on from the underpass, others said they can endure it.

"I just put up with it. I just put up with it until the homeless search comes. I just put up with it," David said.

METRO said, in addition to the music, they also have a team that works with people experiencing homelessness to help connect them with services.

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