Background
In March 2024, the Safe Blocks Program received a $2 million Federal Byrne Grant to fund place-based community violence intervention programming over four years in Portland's Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods. This amounts to approximately $500,000 available in each neighborhood, or about $125,000-$133,000 per neighborhood per year, with projects expected to continue through 2027 while funds remain.
Why these locations?
The Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods suffer from historical disinvestment as well as high rates of violent crime and disproportionate levels of social vulnerability.
How will projects be selected?
The Safe Blocks Program team will plan and implement projects following engagement with the community. Projects will benefit residents living in Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods as well as all Portlanders.
Safe Blocks will conduct a survey to assess the community safety needs in the neighborhoods listed above. Projects selected will use evidence-based, non-policing strategies to:
- Reduce violence;
- Invest in the physical environment; and
- Encourage pro-social activity.
How will we measure success?
As a result of increased trust and capacity, we anticipate community members will remain engaged in their own safety through long-term support from the Safe Blocks Program. Success will be measured by:
- A reduction in shooting incidents;
- Reduced calls for police service; and
- Increased feelings of safety among residents.
Project evaluation will be based on information collected in surveys and interviews, community engagement, and crime data.
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