‘Strategic Partnership for Safety and Prosperity in Downtown Frederick’
Community leaders, nonprofit organizations, human services providers, along with other stakeholders, are pleased to announce the formation of the Downtown Safety & Services Initiative, or DSSI, with the goal of enhancing the continued safety and vibrancy of downtown Frederick.
In response to concerns expressed by community stakeholders regarding the safety and vibrancy of downtown Frederick, DSSI was born. It was conceived as a community initiative facilitated by the Ausherman Family Foundation to address these issues. DSSI has a strong commitment from the Mayor’s office and will be co-led by Peter Couchman (AFF) and Gayon Sampson (Mayor’s Office). Including the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, DSSI has significant support from the following:
- Human service providers
- Nonprofit organizations
- Residents
- Businesses
- Faith community members
- The Frederick Police Department
- Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office
- Government entities
DSSI’s structured committees will focus on civic engagement in a unified effort, thereby creating a safer and more welcoming environment for the entire community, fostering a positive image for both residents and visitors, and ensuring that human services are provided to those in need.
“Our goal is to provide an environment of safety, vibrancy and respect for all in our community and the guests to our city,” said Pete Couchman, Director of Community Benefit Projects for the Ausherman Family Foundation and co-leader of DSSI.
“DSSI will focus its efforts in the areas of safety, economic opportunity and beautification of Carroll Creek Linear Park, while making sure that the most vulnerable in our community have access to the support services they need.”
“We are absolutely dedicated to facilitating these goals as a unified community,” finished Couchman.
There are more than 72,000 residents in the city and as the population continues to grow, so does the civic responsibility to maintain a safe and thriving downtown.
Photo by: Ron Cogswell
“It is crucial for our success to engage stakeholders from all segments of our community,” says Gayon Sampson, co-leader of DSSI and executive assistant to the Mayor.
“This is a complex issue with many parts. Only by including these varied perspectives will be we be able to find solutions and move the needle,” finished Sampson.
Couchman and Sampson have met with community stakeholders to organize and establish basic operational guidelines and will soon hold several public meetings to elicit input from the community at large. The first public meeting was held on October 1st at STAGES 15 W. Patrick Street.
DSSI recognizes that a widespread volunteer effort will be necessary for the implementation of forward plans and concepts. As an initiative, DSSI realizes that continuing to enhance Frederick’s existing vibrancy and sense of safety and security doesn’t just ‘happen,’ but rather requires a sustained, dedicated and integrated approach.
DSSI is establishing the following committees, each dedicated to addressing the challenges identified during stakeholder conversations:
- Ambassador Programs
- Security & Enforcement
- Services & Coordination
- Environmental Design & Programming
- Public Messaging
“Anytime there is strong population growth and a greater influx of visitors, it creates the need for additional community amenities and services, so that everyone who visits downtown retail, restaurants, churches and parks can be supported, welcome, safe and a vital part of this community,” stated Sampson.
“Frederick is an extraordinarily philanthropic community that deserves every effort to make our city the best place to live, grow our many downtown businesses, raise our children and care for our neighbors,” added Couchman. “We are incredibly excited to see what solutions emerge from this important initiative.”
For more information, visit the DSSI website at: www.frederickdssi.org
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.