Reply #7: Community-based initiatives [View All]

http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/news/13276359/detail.html
Community-based initiatives -- The city is pushing its anonymous 311 phone tip line and its two-way communication tool, CitizenObserver.com, where neighbors can log on and quickly alert authorities to crimes and suspicious activity on their street.

CitizenObserver is only available in Zone 1, but Harper said it will be expanded citywide "within the next few weeks."

Also, Ravenstahl said a faith-based initiative called "Adopt A Block" will allow members of a church community to keep an eye on the area near their buildings and work together to beautify the neighborhood.

"The police can't be everywhere," said Ravenstahl. "They're not going to be there when the shooting or violent activity takes place. But guess what, somebody else is. And if somebody else doesn't step forward, we're can't be successful."

Surveillance Cameras -- Ravenstahl did not give a timetable but said the use of surveillance cameras in high-crime areas is being considered. He spoke of his recent trip to Chicago, where statistics have shown a drop in serious crimes and police calls for drug activity during the several months that a surveillance system has been in place.
http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/news/13276359/detail.html