The City of Erie is partnering with a local advocate organization to launch a pilot program in an effort to enhance safety and reduce crime.
Members of the Erie Blue Coats will be stationed in Perry Square on weekdays from noon until 7 p.m., engaging with residents and connecting them to local resources as needed.
The “Erie Community Presence Pilot Program” has already begun, taking place from August 31 through November 6.
The city has diverted about $20,000 from the police overtime budget to fund this contract and invest in building consistent relationships with the community.
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“It’s been going great, they’ve been making referrals to services, they’ve de-escalated a number of incidents that might have otherwise gone in a different direction if not for their peacekeeping presence,” said Lori Radder Spicer, chief of staff for the City of Erie. “They’re continuing to do all the work they’ve done in our schools and our neighborhoods, this is just an additional project that we’re looking forward to partnering not only on this but exploring other opportunities for partnership with them going forward.”
The administration will review the data from this contract and will work with the Blue Coats and the police department on how to move forward.
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