VALLEJO, Calif. (KGO) -- Commuters and workers at the Vallejo Ferry Terminal are sounding the alarm over a growing rat problem that's hard to miss -- and even harder to ignore.
"They're just running around our feet," said Nahomy Brenes, a barista at Panama Bay Coffee inside the terminal. "Running around like it's nothing."
Dozens of rats have been spotted scurrying across the grass and near dumpsters outside the terminal, prompting concern from both employees and visitors.
On Thursday, the city of Vallejo acknowledged the issue in a statement:
The City is actively monitoring this matter and recognizes the seriousness of the situation. City staff are currently evaluating the issue, and they are working with a pest control contractor to provide a formal assessment. Unfortunately, the pest company had to reschedule their appointment for today, but the staff is working to have them on site as soon as possible. Once the assessment is received, the City will determine the appropriate course of action to address the issue effectively and responsibly.
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"It's just really unsettling and very concerning for us and everyone else as well," Brenes said.
Wes Ray, who stopped by the terminal for coffee, was surprised to hear about the infestation.
"I probably would not stop," Ray said. "My wife would want to befriend them. I would be repelled."
As for where the rats are coming from, some believe a recently cleared homeless encampment nearby may have displaced them.
"I know they got rid of a lot of trash on top of that parking lot," Brenes said.
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"Being this close to an old naval yard, I can see where they come from," Ray said.
Solano County's environmental health team is assisting the city and confirmed that no rodent activity has been found inside any food facilities at the terminal. Still, workers say the presence of rats -- inside or out -- is a problem.
"Especially in a food service job, it's just really unsettling," Brenes said.
She noted that efforts by the coffee shop to bring in its own pest control were blocked, as the exterior area falls under city jurisdiction.
"It's pretty much out of our hands at this point," she said.
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