Signed! Safer Streets Act to Improve Public Safety

SB22-001 will help local governments utilize $10.3 million to make critical, evidence-based improvements that will cut down on crime

AURORA, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed into law the Safer Streets Act, an evidence-based approach to help local governments make critical improvements that will cut down on crime and improve public safety in Colorado.

SB22-001, sponsored by Senators Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, and Nick Hinrichsen, D-Pueblo, and Representatives Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora and Kerry Tipper, D-Lakewood, creates a $10.3 million grant program that will help local governments make critical upgrades to neighborhoods, such as better lighting for increased visibility and improved design of the built physical environment, that will help prevent crime and create safer communities.

“Tackling crime is one of my top priorities, and I am proud to see the Safer Streets Act to improve public safety in Pueblo and across Colorado get signed into law,” Hinrichsen said. “I’ve seen firsthand how important good lighting and well-maintained public spaces can be, and the data shows that these strategies not only reduce crime, they also improve civic pride and quality of life for everyone.”

“With proven crime prevention and reduction strategies, we are creating safer neighborhoods in Colorado,” said Ricks. “This law helps local governments create and maintain public space for everyone to enjoy, reducing crime and revitalizing neighborhoods in the process.” 

“Every Coloradan deserves to feel safe, but right now too many of our neighbors don’t have that luxury, which is why we are taking action to address it,” Buckner said. “The Safer Streets Act is an important, evidence-based bill that will help communities across our state implement data-driven solutions to prevent crime. I’m proud to champion this critical legislation, and I’ll continue fighting to create a safer Colorado for us all.”

“The Safer Streets Act is modeled from evidence-based, proven strategies to build safer communities,” said Tipper. “Through smart investments in good lighting, better walking paths and public spaces that work for everyone, we can boost community pride and cut down on crime. I’m proud of the community members and leaders we worked alongside to prioritize safer communities and beautiful public spaces.”

SB22-001 allows local governments—as well as community non-profit organizations partnering with local governments—to apply for grants that make improvements to the physical environment that increase visibility, direct foot traffic, and improve aesthetics through graffiti and trash removal. 

The bill utilizes Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, an effective tool in reducing crime. Research and case studies have proven that the proper, safe design of the physical environment can result in lower incidences of crime, increased safety, and an overall increase in quality of life.