Hogsett announces efforts to improve downtown safety, cleanliness

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Mayor Joe Hogsett on Thursday announced $3.5 million worth of investments aimed at increasing cleanliness and public safety in downtown Indianapolis.

The changes will be a part of his Downtown Resiliency Strategy focused on addressing the impact of COVID-19 on Indianapolis’ economic and cultural core, and strengthening downtown as a livable neighborhood.

Public safety efforts

• Increased overtime shifts for Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department bike patrol officers.
• Three new mobile security cameras to be connected to IMPD monitoring software.
• Grant program aimed at increasing participation in IMPD’s B.link Camera System.
• The establishment of the city’s first 24/7 clinician led response team by the Office of Public Health and Safety.

Cleanliness efforts

• A new downtown focused crew for cleanliness and maintenance by the Indianapolis Department of Public Works.
• A new Public Works strategy to maintain alleys, sidewalk power washing, and targeting of other problem areas.
• An increase in the number of trash cans to reduce litter.
• An increase in the number of cleaning ambassadors.

Efforts to help the homeless

• Downtown Indy Inc. will work with service providers to hire social workers and housing navigators focused on the downtown homeless population.
• A new downtown public restroom at the Office of Public Health and Safety’s safe distribution site.