SITE OVERVIEW ♦ MINNEAPOLIS | MINNESOTA
Target Area: North Four Neighborhoods • Population: 382,600 (city)
Fiscal Agent: City of Minneapolis
Research Partner: Council on Crime and Justice (CCJ)
Crime Concerns: Aggravated assaults, robberies, homicides, and other violent crimes
BCJI Funding Year: 2014 Planning
Neighborhood Profile
The North Four neighborhoods are located in North Minneapolis – the epicenter of unemployment, unstable housing, low educational attainment, violent crime, and poverty. The target area is predominately African American (47%) and there are disparities between whites and residents of color with regard to education and employment.
During the initial BCJI project assessment, it was discovered that from 2000 to 2013 the target area, which encompasses one-fifth of the city’s geography and population, accounted for 32 percent of the city’s violent crimes. During the same period, the target area also experienced a great deal of domestic and child welfare challenges, representing 40 percent of the city’s child neglect cases, 38 percent of the city’s child abuse cases, and 37 percent of the city’s domestic violence cases. Additionally, a large amount of the city’s identified problem properties are located within the target area (73%). Because of the amalgamation of these issues, the North Four neighborhoods have experienced a 12% increase in police presence.
Planning Process
The primary goal of the Minneapolis BCJI project was to identify best practices to address major crime drivers in the community. This was achieved through a partnership with law enforcement, government, and other community stakeholders that ultimately created comprehensive revitalization in the North Four neighborhoods. To achieve these goals, the Minneapolis CBCR site developed a cross-sector partnership team, who created an implementation and research plan. The team inventoried and evaluated what resources were needed and available to improve public safety. When resources were available, the partnership expanded upon them. Also key to their planning was the development of a communication plan to promote ongoing information sharing among partners, which allowed the plan to be conducive to innovation and adaptation. Ultimately, these endeavors aided in the development of a sustainable plan to identify and address systemic drivers of crime in hot spots in the target area.
Implementation Strategies
The Minneapolis Police Department was active in its community engagement and outreach. They participated in National Night Out, an effort to raise awareness of crime and drug prevention efforts and to generate support for local anti-crime efforts. Ultimately, these events promoted community engagement, youth education, and positive interactions with local police and fire departments. Additionally, the Department sponsored “Safe Summer Nights” for families and co-sponsoring a summer meal program with Loaves and Fishes.
The City of Minneapolis continues its revitalization efforts and addressing the environmental design of the city. Among these efforts was the transformation of walking spaces throughout the city, as in their First Avenue Walkway Pilot Project. They also adamantly support the Hennepin Avenue Farmers’ Market, which promotes healthy, organic food options for its residents. One of their most interesting initiatives is “Open Streets MPLS,” which has promotes healthy living, local businesses, sustainable transportation, and civic pride within the city for the past five years. On various days throughout the year, streets are converted into car-free zones so that residents can participate in activities, enjoy local businesses, and familiarize themselves with their neighbors.
Other Key Partners
Minneapolis Police Department, Minneapolis Department of Health and Family Support, Minneapolis Mayor’s Office, Northside Achievement Zone, Hennepin County Probation Department, Minneapolis City Attorney, and Minneapolis City Coordinator
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