MPD Announces Overtown Community Safety Initiative

Miami Police Department officials announced a new Community Safety Initiative for Overtown on May 13, 2026, focusing on community policing strategies to curb crime. The program, outlined in a department press release, emphasizes increased foot patrols along key streets like NW 2nd Avenue and 10th Street, where residents have reported concerns about theft and violence. "This initiative builds trust between officers and Overtown residents through regular community walks and town halls," said MPD District 2 Capt. Lisa Hamilton in the official statement. The department plans monthly meetings at the Overtown Community Center, 1750 NW 3rd Ave., starting June 1. Youth outreach programs will partner with local organizations to prevent gang involvement among teens. The safety push aligns with broader Vision Zero efforts by Miami-Dade County, which aim to eliminate traffic fatalities through improved pedestrian safety in high-risk areas like Overtown's Wynwood border. MPD cited a recent internal report showing a 12% rise in property crimes near I-95 overpasses, prompting the focused response. Public input sessions are scheduled via the city's Laserfiche portal, document ID 25989. Local leaders welcomed the announcement. Overtown HOA President Jamal Carter stated at a press briefing, "These strategies address our calls for more visible policing without over-policing." The initiative also includes training for officers on cultural competency, drawing from the 2014 Overtown/Wynwood Bicycle Pedestrian Mobility Plan's safety recommendations. Implementation begins immediately with 20 additional officers assigned to evening shifts. Residents can report issues directly through the MPD app or by calling the non-emergency line at 305-579-6111. MPD will release quarterly progress reports on its website.