Fort Worth City Council has given the green light to a pilot ambassador program aimed at enhancing safety in the West 7th Street Entertainment District, following a tragic incident in the fall of 2023. This move comes after the fatal shooting of Texas Christian University student Wes Smith in the area. The city has entered into a $315,000 contract with Block by Block, the same company currently operating the downtown ambassador program.
The program involves creating a visible safety presence for visitors, de-escalating aggressive situations, and providing assistance to those in need of social services. The ambassadors will also document their interactions using a special software system, allowing for the creation of detailed reports for the police.
Fort Worth Police Officer Tracy Carter expressed the importance of the program as an additional resource to help both the officers and civilians feel safe. The district plans to deploy three to four ambassadors by the end of spring or the beginning of summer, with potential for expansion of the program to other areas if deemed necessary.
The possibility of establishing a Public Improvement District (PID) for long-term funding is being considered, pending the success of the pilot program. This has generated mixed opinions from stakeholders in the area, with some expressing support for investing in security measures to enhance the district, while others remain skeptical of the program’s potential impact.
Emil Bragdon, a Business owner in the area, acknowledges the need for safety measures and supports the idea of a PID, but remains uncertain about the effectiveness of the ambassador program. While highlighting the relatively safe nature of the district, he also emphasizes the importance of continually improving security measures for the well-being of guests and staff.
The West 7th Street Entertainment District has been a popular attraction in Fort Worth, known for its bustling nightlife and vibrant atmosphere. The recent tragedy has sparked a renewed focus on enhancing safety measures to maintain the district’s reputation as a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors.
Despite varying opinions on the program, the overarching sentiment is one of proactive commitment to safety and continued improvement in the district. As the ambassador program takes shape, stakeholders are keen to assess its impact and effectiveness in further bolstering the security measures already in place. This ongoing dedication to safety reflects the community’s collective efforts to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for all.
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