Philadelphia leaders seek public's help in developing new safety plan

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia officials are asking city residents for their help to improve public safety in the city.

Mayor Cherelle Parker and other city leaders spoke at City Hall Thursday morning about coming up with a new strategy to fight crime.

Officials say they are in the early stages of creating a five-year public safety strategic plan, relying heavily on feedback from residents, business leaders, and youth.

The framework is still under development, with no formal plan unveiled yet.

Leaders began collecting community input in May through community meetings and partnerships with civic and intervention-focused organizations.

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said the city is listening closely to how residents, specifically young people, view policing and envision its future.

"We're talking about how they see policing and where they want to see policing five years from now and how they want to be treated in this space," Bethel said.

City leaders highlighted recent progress in reducing violence and implementing new initiatives. Mayor Parker noted a significant drop in homicides and shootings.

"On our current pace, Philadelphia should see the lowest number of homicides and shootings in over 50 years," she said.

According to 6abc's data team, so far this year, Philadelphia has experienced a 59% decrease in homicides compared to 2021, which was the city's most violent year on record.

Maureen Rush of the Philadelphia Police Foundation emphasized the importance of public perception.

"We've got to make people feel safe in the city," Rush said. "It's not just about numbers. We want you to feel safe."

With the busy summer of 2026 approaching, the city is working to finalize the strategy.

David Zega, executive director for strategy in the Office of the Police Commissioner, said a draft will be released for public comment in the coming months.

"The strategy will come in the next few months. We hope to have a draft we can put out for public comment," Zega said.

Residents can participate in the survey by visiting the Philadelphia Police Department's website or scanning QR codes on billboards expected to appear throughout the city.