**New Task Force Formed to Address Public Safety in Downtown Boston**
The Downtown Boston Neighborhood Association has announced the launch of the “One Downtown Task Force,” a strategic initiative designed to improve public safety, reduce crime and homelessness, and enhance the overall quality of life in Downtown Boston and its surrounding neighborhoods. The initiative brings together a diverse coalition of city and state officials, law enforcement agencies, shelters, churches, institutions, business and trade associations, and civic organizations.
Co-chaired by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, the 10-member Task Force is focused on achieving measurable outcomes by aligning resources and coordinating efforts across various agencies. Priority issues include congregate drug use, criminal activity such as retail theft, and homelessness.
A key component of the initiative is the Joint Strategic Action Team (JSAT), a cross-functional group that includes public officials, city and state agencies, law enforcement, and outreach organizations. Working in close collaboration with the Task Force leadership, JSAT aims to develop and implement area-wide strategies that are effective and sustainable.
The Task Force is set to remain active through the fall, allowing a full spring, summer, and fall cycle to implement targeted strategies, evaluate progress, and adjust tactics based on impact.
