HAGERSTOWN – City officials are preparing to expand “Operation Takeback,” a neighborhood revitalization initiative that combines law enforcement, city services and resident engagement to curb nuisance activity.
The program was piloted along King Street earlier this year, where targeted enforcement and outreach helped reduce disturbances and improve community safety. Building on that success, police have proposed new focus areas: the Church Street corridor between Potomac and Burhans, the Bester neighborhood, and Locust Street, both North and South.
Early results on Church Street
A 30-day detail along Church Street led to 26 arrests, primarily for outstanding warrants and drug offenses. Police reported receiving positive feedback from residents and business owners, many of whom stated that the presence of officers and city staff members made a visible difference.
Still, officials cautioned that Church Street presents a different challenge than King Street. With more commercial than residential properties, revitalization efforts will need to include economic development tools alongside enforcement.
Community buy-in seen as key
Council members and staff emphasized that sustainable change depends on residents being actively involved in the effort. Suggestions included community campaigns, such as encouraging homeowners to leave porch lights on, to signal active neighborhood participation.
“Police can’t do this alone,” Councilman Kristin Aleshire said. “When the community shows it’s engaged, it changes the entire dynamic.”
Next steps
City staff will analyze crime, housing and service data for the proposed neighborhoods before returning with detailed recommendations. The goal is to tailor strategies to each area’s unique mix of challenges – from high vacancy rates to street-level drug activity.
Officials say Operation Takeback is designed not only to reduce crime but also to connect residents with city resources and improve the quality of life block by block.
