'Every Block Counts' pilot program to reduce crime shows progress in the Bronx, expands across NYC

The "Every Block Counts" pilot aims to dedicate city resources to blocks with the highest crime rates, specifically in shootings.

Marissa Santorelli

Dec 9, 2024, 11:29 PM

Updated 11 days ago

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Mayor Eric Adams announced a pilot program to reduce crime and increase the quality of life across the city on Monday.
Adams noted the pilot program launched back in October just for parts of the Bronx and Brooklyn.
The "Every Block Counts" pilot aims to dedicate city resources to blocks with the highest crime rates, specifically in shootings.
Five streets per precinct will be selected.
The 46th Precinct in the Bronx was chosen for the pilot, highlighting three major blocks: Elm Place, Walton Avenue and Morris Avenue.
The plan was spearheaded by Bronx lawmakers.
"Just 4% of blocks in all of the city of New York account for almost all of the shootings... 4%," said Council Member Pierina Sanchez.
He announced in the three-month pilot period, all blocks in the Bronx included didn't experience a single shooting or any shots fired.
"For the first time in years, we saw rapid improvement," said Carrie Cuthbertson.
Cuthbertson is a "Block CEO," a title given to a resident that lives on one of the selected blocks that volunteers to be the city's eyes and ears on the ground.
Cuthbertson lost her son, Devon, to gun violence back in December 2019. She said this program will help her turn her pain into purpose.
"Change happens step, one effort, and one block at a time... I knew this initiative would create real tangible change " she said.
Mayor Adams noted that every block is different, and this program work to identify each block specific needs to make city streets safer.