BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Painted concrete barriers are now in place throughout Birmingham's East Lake neighborhood.
They're part of a new pilot program called Project Safe Streets, which was launched by the city on Monday. Officials believe limiting the number of entry and exit points will deter speeding and drive by shootings.
“The effort here is to disrupt traffic flow for those who may be coming into the community to perhaps commit crime,” City of Birmingham communications director Rick Journey explained.
The perimeter includes Division Avenue, Oporto Madrid, Higdon Road, and 68th Street South. The temporary barriers will come down in two weeks, but the concrete barriers will stay in place for several months as the program's effectiveness is evaluated.
The East Lake neighborhood was selected due to concerns about the number of crimes in the area.
“I think it’s a good idea, because there’s a lot of crime around here,” resident Cedrick Lee said.
However, some locals believe the city's efforts should go beyond barriers. For example, lifelong resident Edward Taylor would like to see a police substation in his neighborhood.
“It feel like you’re in prison down there,” Taylor said. “I don’t think [the barriers are] going to help that much.”
The city says it sought input from East Lake residents before Monday’s launch. The program also calls for neighborhood revitalization.