The City of Victoria is launching a series of partnered initiatives to try and make downtown Victoria a safer place.
Two initiatives are being highlighted by the city, the Downtown Victoria Business Association‘s (DVBA) Good Neighbour Program and VicPD’s Block Watch.
The DVBA Good Neighbour Program will be aiming to create more communication channels for downtown residents and business owners, according to a press release from VicPD Friday explaining the two initiatives.
The department also says the program will be encouraging “Scrub Up” cleaning events in the area and create more security for businesses in the area through the sharing of information including security techniques and building Victoria’s businesses back.
“A safer, vibrant downtown is one where businesses thrive and communities flourish,” said Jeff Bray, DVBA president. “The DVBA Good Neighbour Program, VicPD Block Watch for downtown, and other exciting initiatives are all part of our partnerships that will help build Victoria back even better.”
VicPD’s Block Watch program will be implemented based on the success of the program in residential Victoria and Esquimalt, according to the release.
They say residents are invited to work with VicPD in “reporting suspicious or criminal activity” and make a “neighbours looking out for neighbours” concept.
The City of Victoria says it will be providing funding for the DVBA Good Neighbour Program and support the VicPD Block Watch.
The city did not say when the initiatives are expected to begin.
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