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.
What will our projects look like?
We work with neighborhood groups and businesses on community-led “placemaking” projects and events to increase safety and build community. Projects such as street murals, graffiti clean-ups, and community gardens invest in the physical environment and reduce crime and violence without additional policing. Events like block parties draw in positive attention and build connected, safe, and livable communities. By having communities lead these events, we build welcoming spaces and activities that work for them and strengthen their connection to local government.
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.
Safe Blocks also plans to release a Request for Proposals in Winter/Spring 2025. Safe Blocks will consider proposals that support efforts like public art creation, cultural events, place transformation, greener spaces, youth programs, and other opportunities identified by the community.
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. Project evaluation will be based on information collected in surveys and interviews, community engagement, and relevant crime statistics. Safe Blocks strives to impact three key measures of community safety:
- A reduction in shooting incidents;
- Reduced calls for police service; and
- Increased feelings of safety among residents.
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