MIDTOWN PRESS RELEASE | June 24, 2025

Midtown Buzz Summer Issue, 2025

SAFER STREETS, STRONGER COMMUNITY: MIDTOWN CRIME DROPS AS POPULATION GROWS

As Midtown Houston welcomes more residents, businesses, and visitors at an unprecedented rate, public safety remains a core service area. We’re listening and taking action to create programs that enhance security and respond to the concerns of business owners, residents, and visitors. Your input has been invaluable in shaping our approach.

Despite steady population growth, crime has decreased 23% since 2019—a clear sign that Midtown’s investments in modern safety infrastructure and responsive programming are working. Backed by innovative tools, targeted patrol strategies, and strong community engagement, the Midtown Management District (MMD) is building a neighborhood where people feel confident living, commuting, working, and connecting with one another.

Strategic Safety Investments, Tangible Community Benefits

This year, MMD dedicated over $2.2 million to public safety and cleanliness—the largest investment in its history. These funds support high-impact programs that deter crime and build public trust:

  • An 87% increase in SEAL Security patrol coverage, now offering 24/7 protection with three full-time officers, including a dedicated presence at Midtown Park.
  • An additional $110,000 in funding for the HPD Bike Patrol, made possible by the Midtown Parking Benefit District to ensure more visibility and approachability in high-traffic and residential areas.
  • An investment in 25 Flock Safety Cameras, which have scanned over 3.6 million license plates and generated more than 3,200 real-time alerts for law enforcement from January 2025 to March of 2025 alone.
  • The Direct Targeted Enforcement Program also launched in May of 2024 and has led to 35 arrests for felony and misdemeanor offenses, recovered a stolen vehicle, and seized illegal weapons and narcotics.

New Innovative Technology:

Flock Safety Cameras

Midtown’s Flock Safety Camera Network has become a key tool in supporting law enforcement and enhancing public safety across the district. The system includes 25 license plate recognition (LPR) cameras strategically installed in high-visibility locations to monitor vehicle activity and flag potential threats. By delivering real-time data, this technology enables faster responses, supports investigations, and plays a critical role in crime prevention. It also strengthens safety during major events and in high-traffic areas.

The program is funded through May 2026, with plans already underway to explore expanded coverage and greater integration with patrol operations.

Directed Enforcement:

Focused Patrols, Safer Streets

The Directed Targeted Enforcement (DTE) Program has made a meaningful impact across Midtown’s beat. Officers have executed over 162 warrants, issued more than 118 traffic citations, made 35 arrests, seized weapons and narcotics, and recovered a stolen vehicle. The program was extended in November 2024 and is set to begin a third phase in May 2025, reinforcing its value in Midtown’s layered public safety strategy. As we expand these efforts, we’re excited to welcome our newest Public Safety team member, Sharita Simpo, who joins us as our Public Safety Administrative Coordinator. Sharita’s expertise will help ensure we stay proactive and responsive to the community’s needs.

Safety That Starts With You:

A Community-Wide Commitment

Residents, business owners, and visitors are encouraged to stay involved by attending Midtown’s public safety committee and board meetings. As always, we remind our community if you See Something, Say Something. Visit midtownhouston.com for upcoming dates and safety resources.

To report non-emergency concerns or access safety resources, visit the public safety section of our website. For questions or support, contact us at 713-526-7577 or [email protected].

LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Midtown Houston Community,

As we move through 2025, I want to acknowledge the incredible progress we’ve made together to enhance the safety, accessibility, and livability of Midtown. Your voice has helped guide our priorities, and we’ve responded with action that strengthens the foundation of our community.

Public safety continues to lead our efforts. From launching the Midtown HPD Bike Patrol to installing 25 strategically placed Flock Safety Cameras, we’re combining visibility, data, and partnership to create a more secure environment. These tools support faster response times, stronger deterrence, and greater peace of mind for everyone who lives, works, or visits here. Safety isn’t a one-time investment—it’s a daily commitment we take seriously.

We’ve also made significant strides in infrastructure. Upgrades along Caroline Street and throughout the district include new sidewalks, better drainage, improved lighting, and added green space. These projects not only improve how we move through Midtown—they reflect our belief that infrastructure is the backbone of public life. When we invest in streets, walkways, and public amenities, we’re investing in connection, equity, and resilience.

At the same time, we’ve kept our focus on maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. Through seasonal maintenance, turf repairs, lighting upgrades, and refreshed park amenities, we’re ensuring that our shared spaces remain safe, beautiful, and inclusive for all.

While safety and infrastructure are front and center, we remain committed to supporting culture and creativity. The 2025 MidtownHOU Arts Micro Grants have empowered local artists to share stories, activate public space, and build community through murals, music, and more. Projects like HueMan:Shelter demonstrate the power of art to inspire, transform, and uplift—even as we focus on practical neighborhood improvements.

Looking ahead, we’ll continue listening and delivering on what matters most: a safer Midtown, stronger infrastructure, and a neighborhood that works for everyone. Whether you engage through public meetings, community events, or everyday conversations, your input shapes what comes next.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re building a Midtown that is safer, smarter, and more connected—for today and for the future.

Warm regards,

Matt Thibodeaux
Executive Director
Midtown Houston

 

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