The Downtown Belleville BIA says it continues to address the perception of safety and promote a sense of inclusivity within the Downtown community via its Welcoming Streets program.
The BIA issued a statement Wednesday following a rash of overdoses in downtown Belleville Tuesday.
Welcoming Streets has been running since 2021, connecting people to vital services and assisting businesses with uncertain situations by offering resources, materials, and workshops pertaining to mental health and substance use, homelessness, systems navigation, and life-saving medication training.
Sara Behring of the Welcoming Streets program says they are continually adapting their approach to meet the unique needs that arise and that collaborative efforts between local businesses, law enforcement, and community leaders have led to the implementation of effective safety measures to ensure that downtown Belleville remains a secure destination for all.
The organization says visitors to Belleville’s downtown can find a bustling commercial landscape and a secure, inviting space that reflects the city’s dedication to the well-being of its residents.