Austin’s Downtown Safety Team Expands for Public Safety

News Summary

Austin is enhancing its Downtown Safety Team to improve safety and reduce non-emergency crimes in the bustling downtown area. Launched by the Downtown Austin Alliance, the team will grow from three to six members, with plans to expand to 23 by October. Their initiative focuses on educating the public about city ordinances and fostering compliance rather than punishment, ensuring a safer environment for residents and visitors alike.

Austin’s Downtown Safety Team Expands to Ensure a Safer City Experience

In the vibrant city of Austin, a new team dedicated to enhancing safety in the downtown area is all set to ramp up its efforts. The Downtown Safety Team is not only busy tackling the rise in non-emergency crimes, but it’s also working on establishing a safer environment for both residents and visitors in the city’s bustling core.

Taking Action for a Safer Downtown

Launched by the Downtown Austin Alliance, this initiative has been gaining momentum and is viewed as a significant step forward in addressing public safety concerns. Starting next week, the Downtown Safety Team will double in size, expanding from three to six members. This is just the beginning, as plans are in place to develop the team to a total of 23 members by October.

The Downtown Ambassadors, as they are referred to, aren’t merely safety watchmen; they are actively involved in cleaning the streets and sidewalks, ranging from iconic 6th Street to Republic Square Park. Their daily patrols will take place from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with one member covering Republic Square Park from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. This round-the-clock initiative is designed to address a variety of issues that have been on the minds of property owners and business operators.

Focusing on Non-Emergency Crimes

As crime in Austin has transformed, primarily focusing on non-emergency Class C misdemeanors, the safety team is here to help. The troubles highlighted by local business and property owners include property crimes, public intoxication, simple assault, disorderly conduct, and illegal overnight camping in Republic Square Park. Notably, Republic Square Park has recently seen a reduction in crime following the enforcement of a new ordinance limiting access from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

In May alone, the safety team engaged in 601 interactions with the public, achieving a remarkable 81% voluntary compliance with their requests for adherence to city ordinances. This impressive statistic supports the idea that with a little guidance, many individuals are keen to follow the rules.

A Different Approach to Crime

It’s essential to note that these ambassadors are not police officers. Instead, they collaborate closely with the Austin Police Department (APD) while focusing their efforts on Class C violations such as public intoxication and sleeping in public spaces. The team’s primary goal is to encourage compliance without heavy-handed penalization. Their approach initially revolves around educating individuals about local ordinances, paving the way for a more cooperative atmosphere in the downtown area.

While the emphasis is on guidance rather than punishment, if non-compliance continues, the safety ambassadors are prepared to escalate situations by contacting the APD for further assistance. Given that the APD is currently facing a 23% vacancy rate, particularly in positions pertinent to the downtown sector, this collaborative effort is crucial in addressing the backlog of low-priority crimes.

How to Get Involved

If citizens encounter nonviolent situations or need assistance, they are encouraged to reach out to the Downtown Austin Alliance at 512-937-7422 instead of dialing 911. This way, individuals can ensure that emergencies are prioritized appropriately while still keeping the downtown environment safe and welcoming for all.

With the Downtown Safety Team stepping up its game, it’s clear that Austin is committed to bridging the gaps in law enforcement and enhancing public safety amidst ongoing police staffing shortages. As the initiative unfolds, both residents and tourists alike can look forward to a more secure experience in the heart of this vibrant city.