HAMDEN, Conn. (WFSB) — A nearby police force is joining hands with a retail center.
They aim to ensure customer safety and keep teenagers from hanging out on the sidewalks.
Throughout the years, law enforcement has been called to the parking lot at 2100 Dixwell Avenue due to incidents such as bag snatching, damaged vehicles, and even hijackings.
Now, their ongoing presence will be enhanced with the opening of a new public safety community center.
"You have no idea who might be following you or who could be ahead of you. Even during daytime, it can be frightening," stated Allie Stegner from Hamden.
Allie Stegner and Sally Pitcher mention that they have been closely following the series of purse snatching incidents and carjacking events over the years. They view the newly opened Hamden Public Safety Community Center as a welcome development.
"People need to feel secure. I believe it will provide a sense of security for some individuals, as issues have consistently plagued this region," Pitcher stated.
Today, the town celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new location, opening its doors in what was previously an unoccupied store within the bustling Dixwell Avenue shopping center.
"I aim for customers to visit Hamden Plaza, make purchases, and ensure they feel secure and at ease," stated Chief Edward Page Reynolds of the Hamden Police Department.
Chief Reynolds indicates that this involves community-oriented policing as well.
"This area focuses on fostering a sense of community, encouraging participation, facilitating connections, and forming bridges and collaborations," he stated.
The concept is to utilize the area provided by the plaza’s owners and decorated by Quinnipiac University as a communal gathering spot. This could serve various purposes such as hosting Hamden’s newly formed police activity league meetings or offering a casual hangout for students from the local Hamden High School following their classes.
"It will be a space where people turn off their phones and we focus on learning how to converse and interact with one another, appreciating the significance of engaging in discussions and building community," stated Acting Chief Shelly Carter from the Hamden Fire Department.
Chief Reynolds indicates that their town’s website will provide details for community groups interested in registering to utilize the area for gatherings.
He mentions that there will be additional community initiatives forthcoming shortly, which include the introduction of Hamden’s new police activity league.
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