In a significant move aimed at tackling violence in one of Chicago’s most bustling areas, the federal anti-violence initiative, Project Safe Neighborhoods, is extending its reach to Downtown Chicago for the first time, as announced by U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros this week.
Previously focused on the city’s West and South side neighborhoods, this crime reduction program, which has been in place since 2001, will now encompass three financial zones in Downtown as well as the entirety of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) rail system.
Boutros articulated the rationale behind this expansion, emphasizing the crucial economic and cultural role of Downtown Chicago.
He stated, “Downtown Chicago is the capital of the region’s economy and the cultural and civic heart of the Midwest, where interstate commerce runs strong.”
He further noted that the safety of residents, businesses, and tourists is paramount, stating that when criminal activities lead to a lack of safety, it affects everyone economically — at all levels of government.
While the specific funding allocated for this expanded initiative has not been disclosed, it is intended to support a range of law enforcement efforts, including:
– Prosecuting violent offenders.
– Hiring additional law enforcement officers.
– Providing funds for police overtime, particularly those assigned to Downtown and the CTA.
– Purchasing equipment aimed at reducing violent crime.
– Supporting task forces that involve multiple law enforcement agencies.
– Offering training and assistance through the national Project Safe Neighborhoods program.
– Increasing public awareness of violence prevention through campaigns, including signage on CTA trains.
The areas covered by the project start at Division Street on the Near North Side and include renowned locations such as the Magnificent Mile, Oak Street shopping district, Navy Pier, the Loop, and Millennium Park.
The zone extends south through the South Loop to McCormick Place, reaching west from the Museum Campus to Fulton Market and the West Loop business area.
Law enforcement operations within this new zone will specifically focus on addressing illegal firearm possession, drug trafficking, robberies, carjackings, and other violent violations.
According to a press release, prosecutors are prepared to pursue serious charges, advocate for pretrial detention, and seek lengthy prison sentences for those apprehended either Downtown or on the CTA.
This initiative has garnered support from local law enforcement leaders, including Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling and Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, both of whom have reinforced the importance of partnerships and federal funding to effectively diminish crime rates.
Snelling remarked, “Partnership and collaboration with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners are vital in reducing violence and making Chicago safer for all.”
He pointed out that the expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods serves as a significant resource in addressing crime within one of the busiest sectors of the city.
Interestingly, this expansion takes place against a backdrop of decreasing crime rates in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson reported a citywide 21 percent reduction in homicides, a 36 percent drop in shootings, and a 36 percent fall in robberies year-to-date.
Johnson attributed this positive trend to a holistic approach undertaken by his administration, a view echoed by several neighborhood advocacy groups.
However, amidst this initiative, there remains contention over a separate proposal in the City Council to empower the police superintendent to impose curfews throughout the city, an effort aimed at curbing disturbances caused by groups of teens, particularly in Ald. Brian Hopkins’ (2nd) ward.
A vote on this curfew proposal is anticipated on June 18.
image source from：https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/06/federal-anti-violence-program-expands-to-downtown-cta-trains/
