The Ramsey County board of commissioners accepted a $3 million legislative grant for a public safety and livability initiative in the area surrounding the state Capitol.
Funding will be used by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office for a public safety and livability plan in the area, which includes around 60 blocks surrounding the state Capitol. It’s focus is additional police presence, youth and family programming, community partnerships – such as with area residents, businesses, non-profits and service providers – addressing public transit and other concerns as well as beautification.
The funding is available to the county from July 1 this year until June 30, 2029 and comes from the Legislature’s Capitol Area Community Vitality Account. Expenses are to be higher during the project’s first year, which is expected to include the establishment of a store-front location.
The project must be developed in partnership with the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board — a state agency — and community partners. The board’s purpose is to “preserve and enhance the dignity, beauty, and architectural integrity of the capitol, the buildings adjacent to it, the capitol grounds, and the capitol area,” according to its website.
The partnership must focus on improving “the livability, economic health and safety of communities” within the area. The project also will include street and neighborhood cleanup and ambassadors.
Project objectives include reducing quality-of-life issues and criminal activity, such as illegal drug use and promoting violence prevention, enhancing safety and strengthening partnerships with public agencies and neighborhood organizations. There also is a focus on sustainability and beautification of the area and improving community access to social services.
As part of the initiative, funding is planned for two full-time deputy sheriffs dedicated to patrols and referrals, as well as four full-time community service officers.
The sheriff’s office also will provide extra patrols and visibility, including through its Carjacking and Auto Theft Unit, and there will be an increased presence in key locations, such as light rail stations and other areas of public transportation.
A mobile camera, monitored by personnel, also will be at Park Street and University Avenue.
The initiative also focuses on youth services such as outreach to families in the area in order to prevent crime and promote learning through academics, literacy, physical activities and leadership development.
Prior to any use of funds involving the Capitol complex, the county sheriff’s office is required to consult with the state commissioner of Public Safety and the three-year project is expected to have measurable outcomes and periodic evaluations.
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