Think outside of the box: Neighborhood Safety

Community Impact was an initiative that existed in Chattanooga from 1999 to 2011. They measured neighborhood strength based on four factors. Today, we’re exploring one of those factors: neighborhood safety.

What do we mean by neighborhood safety?

This one may seem like a no brainer. If a neighborhood feels threatening, then neighbors are going to feel more cautious around each other and less able to thrive. But if a neighborhood feels safe, then neighbors will be able to trust each other and more likely to engage their community. But even though this may seem like an obvious element of neighborhood strength, it’s still worth exploring — because a lot more goes into neighborhood safety than you may think.

When we imagine a safe neighborhood, we probably think of pedestrian friendly streets and a general lack of crime.

But for this Causeway Challenge, we wanted to think outside the box — because safety can be so much more than just a streetlamp. Yes, good lighting can help keep neighborhoods safe, but so can outdoor activity, well maintained public spaces, and just generally knowing your neighbors.

Examples of neighborhood safety programs
Neighborhood safety is a must when thinking about community development. Here are some examples of projects that creatively address elements of neighborhood safety.

• Street Seats Project — uses street seating as a way to encourage neighbors to connect and feel ownership for their streets.
• Listening Booth — addresses neighborhood safety by supporting mental health.
• Mapping Abandoned Buildings — encourages neighbors to identify areas of opportunity.
• Crosswalk Art — using art, not only to showcase neighborhood personality, but also to show streets more safe for pedestrians.
• Super Bus Stop — makes bus stops, not only prominent and easily identifiable, but places to bring community members together.

We hope these examples have inspired you to think outside of the box when it comes to ways to improve neighborhood safety.

Some questions to consider, as you think about your own neighborhood:

• Which of your streets make you feel safe or unsafe?
• What about them do you think makes them feel that way?

If you are someone who lives, works, or plays in the 37404 area, we want to know how you think your neighborhood could be strengthened using common spaces. Applications are now open. Learn more and apply at causeway.org/challenge.