Violent crime in downtown Dallas has declined by more than 16 percent this year, according to data shared by Downtown Dallas Inc at its annual State of Downtown event. The organization attributes the decrease to a coordinated safety initiative called “Safe in the City,” which launched in May to address concerns about public safety as major companies reconsider their presence in the area.
The initiative raised over $2.5 million, with significant contributions from several local organizations. Communities Foundation of Texas provided $1.5 million, the Dallas Regional Chamber contributed $500,000, the Dallas Citizens Council gave $400,000, and the Hoblitzelle Foundation added $100,000. These funds have been used to increase police patrols and support quality-of-life programs throughout downtown.
As a result of these efforts, there are now more than 120 police officers assigned to downtown Dallas—up from 90 officers last year.
“We have to be more present,” said Police Chief Daniel Comeaux. “When people see the police, they tend to do less.”
Chief Comeaux also noted that traffic enforcement has become a greater focus for officers. Within 30 days of increased enforcement efforts, police issued 400 tickets—a number he said demonstrates how much control had been lost prior to the crackdown.
In addition to violent crime reductions, Downtown Dallas Inc reported a 27 percent drop in quality-of-life violations such as public sleeping, panhandling and disorderly conduct. The organization also rehoused more than 250 people who had been living in encampments within downtown.
Despite these improvements in public safety metrics, it remains unclear whether large employers will decide to keep their offices downtown or move elsewhere due to other considerations. AT&T is currently searching for office space in suburban locations despite investing $100 million into its four-block headquarters campus—including the AT&T Discovery District—seven years ago. The company maintains a lease on Whitacre Tower at 208 South Akard Street through 2030 but has expanded operations into suburban areas like Richardson where over 400 employees now work outside of downtown.
Looking ahead, Chief Comeaux said that Dallas police plan to implement a drone-first response system aimed at reducing emergency response times and building community trust. He also highlighted recent recruitment successes: “This year, we’ve retained more officers than any year recently,” Comeaux said. “It’s coming from morale — and culture.” He added that DPD recently started its second-largest academy class with 77 cadets—a notable achievement given nationwide staffing challenges facing law enforcement agencies.
With preparations underway for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a planned $3 billion renovation of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, city leaders say maintaining public safety remains a priority for both major gatherings and everyday life downtown.
