Increased Patrols Part Of Stepped Up Security On 16th Street Mall
DENVER (CBS4) - Increased patrols 24 hours a day are part of the stepped up security measures on the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver.
The Downtown Denver Partnership detailed their plan on Wednesday for improving the security and safety of visitors along the popular tourist spot.
In addition to Denver police officers already patrolling the mall, the Downtown Denver Partnership has hired additional security guards. Some of the alleys along the mall will also be closed off to the public and made private.
This comes after attacks and threats of violence, some during the day, along the mall that have kept many visitors away.
"We will redeploy based on what is happening downtown, day of the week, time of day and the experiences and results that we get," said Downtown Denver Partnership President and CEO Tami Door.
Officials believe even a few more uniformed security personnel will help deter crime along the mall.
Some business owners have been the victims of crime.
"A man came into our store and demanded all the money. No one was around, there was no security around, I ran out of the store asking for help, no one was to be found and it was really scary," said business owner Brad Hektor.
There is mixed reaction about crime from those who work along the mall.
"I come downtown to work every day, Monday through Friday, and I generally feel very safe," said one employee.
"It does make me kind of nervous when I see all this stuff going on here," said another.
Other improvements along the mall include adding more than 180 street lights.
