A combination of infrastructure and people-related investments strengthens security while maintaining Pearl Street's welcoming atmosphere

In light of the June 1 terror attack, the city and the business community remain even more committed to the ongoing work of ensuring public safety. A multi-layered and collaborative approach emphasizes proactive safety planning, visible police presence, coordinated agency response, and trusted partnerships with local businesses and organizations. It’s designed to deter crime, build community trust, and ensure downtown remains a welcoming and secure place for everyone.

Over the past 18 months, the city and Downtown Boulder Partnership have taken important steps to improve public safety downtown. In partnership with the Boulder Police Department and other community organizations, these efforts aim to support a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment while aligning with broader goals around community well-being and economic vitality.

"Pearl Street Mall is not just the economic heart of Boulder, but it's the cultural and civic center of our community. These expanded public safety resources we've put in place — coupled with our ongoing investments in downtown infrastructure and programming — ensure Pearl Street continues to be the vibrant core of our city," said Rivera-Vandermyde.

"A safe, welcoming environment is the cornerstone of a thriving downtown and is especially important as we continue our collective efforts to maintain the Pearl Street Mall and entire downtown district as a destination that is welcoming and safe for everyone," said Bettina Swigger, CEO of Downtown Boulder. "Creating a secure urban center requires deep collaboration and shared commitment to dedicating the resources necessary to meaningfully address challenges and ensure all users of downtown are well-supported.”

The following are examples of safety enhancements:

  • The Boulder Police Department is at full staffing levels for the first time in years and able to devote attention to proactive policing, as well as building relationships with businesses
  • The police department has deployed an E-bike patrol unit now fully dedicated to Pearl Street Mall operations, allowing officers to respond to calls more swiftly
  • City Council approved the designation of a downtown police sergeant position to actively coordinate mall policing and localized public safety efforts
  • The police department strategically deploys officers during peak activity periods
  • In close relationship with Downtown Boulder’s Block Captain Program, the police department has introduced the Downtown Officer Block Program, with each officer serving as a direct liaison for the businesses on their blocks located in the Business Improvement District

  • The city continues to cultivate regional law enforcement partnerships, giving Boulder police the opportunity to call upon additional resources during large events
  • The Downtown Boulder Ambassador team, responsible for cleaning, hospitality, and outreach, is deployed seven days a week, actively connecting with businesses and visitors, and collaborating with the Boulder Police Department
  • The city has hired bathroom attendants to monitor the Pearl Street restrooms daily
  • An on-call public space management team supports concerns related to illegal camping within the downtown

Additionally, the city and Downtown Boulder partner to ensure a clean and vibrant downtown experience for business and visitors through projects and initiatives including:

  • Dozens of new street tree plantings and tree grate repairs
  • Repair and replacement of several broken lighting elements on Pearl Street Mall
  • New bike racks throughout the area
  • Masonry work to repair some Pearl Street Mall brickwork
  • Ongoing to process enhancements to address downtown maintenance issues quickly

Together, these efforts are making a meaningful difference and reflect Boulder’s commitment to ensuring downtown remains a safe, accessible, and welcoming destination—while preserving the unique, open character that defines the Pearl Street Mall experience.

“We know that security, cleanliness and vibrancy are core components of what makes a public space like the downtown district so special, and community engagement with the business owners who know their needs best has been incredibly helpful,” said Chief Stephen Redfearn. “We’re continually monitoring developments in this area and are open to adjusting our protocols as new challenges emerge.”

At the same time, Redfearn said, everyone has a role to play in promoting safety.

"Our officers cannot be everywhere at once, which makes community partnership more important than ever," Redfearn said. "We're asking residents and visitors to stay aware of their surroundings, trust their instincts, and report any concerns immediately: see something, say something. Our collective efforts make us stronger and safer."

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