City of Dallas launches fourth annual summer initiative to make neighborhoods safer through youth involvement

Dallas, Texas – In an effort to build on its progress in reducing violent crime and strengthening community ties, the City of Dallas has officially launched the fourth annual Summer of Safety campaign. Mayor Eric L. Johnson, Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux, city officials, and Dallas ISD leaders gathered Thursday at the Singing Hills Recreation Center to announce the initiative, which offers a range of free and low-cost activities designed to keep young people safe and active during the summer months.

Focusing on Youth and Public Safety

The Summer of Safety campaign is part of Dallas’ broader public safety strategy and highlights how the city uses a community-centered and data-driven approach to keep neighborhoods secure. Mayor Johnson emphasized that public safety remains his administration’s highest priority and credited the campaign as a key factor behind the city’s recent improvements in crime rates.

“Public safety is my highest priority for Dallas, and the annual Summer of Safety is a critical component of the data-driven, holistic approach we take to public safety in this city,” said Mayor Johnson. “The Summer of Safety is also one of the many ways we show our youth that they are valued members of our community. We are keeping Dallas safe, helping our kids have fun during the summer, and instilling in our youth a love for Dallas by showing them that Dallas loves them.”

Since the Summer of Safety program began four years ago, the city has experienced consistent reductions in violent crime, particularly during the summer months. This year’s campaign aims to continue that positive trend by giving kids structured, enriching opportunities that keep them away from risky environments.

Citywide Activities and Engagement Opportunities

The City of Dallas, through partnerships across various departments and organizations, has assembled a broad collection of programs and activities. These include athletic programs, reading initiatives, access to cultural and recreational institutions, and more.

Among the featured efforts are:

• SMART Summer Reading Program: Encouraging literacy through fun and educational reading goals.

• Teen All Access Pass: A collaboration with Dallas Park & Recreation that allows Dallas teens aged 13–17 free entry to museums, water parks, nature centers, and other local attractions.

• Mayor’s Youth Sports Ticket Program: Provides youth with free access to professional, collegiate, and amateur sports events in the area.

The Dallas Police Department is also a major partner in the campaign, offering summer youth engagement programs such as organized basketball, boxing classes, and events under the Dallas Police Activities League (PAL).

“This summer, our priority is clear: keep our city safe and our kids engaged. Violent crime is down – and continues to decline – not by chance, but through education, awareness, and collaboration,” said Police Chief Comeaux. “Parents, community members, city leadership, and law enforcement are working together to keep our kids active, informed, and supported, while strengthening the neighborhoods we call home.”

Community-Wide Support and Impact

City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, Dallas Park and Recreation Director John Jenkins, Dallas Park and Recreation Board President Arun Agarwal, DISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Pamela Lear, and Dallas Public Library Interim Director Heather Lowe also spoke during the press conference. Each official voiced strong support for the Mayor’s Summer of Safety and reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in reducing crime and supporting youth development.

A complete list of all summer offerings and eligibility information is available on the City of Dallas website. Participating departments include the Dallas Public Library, Dallas Park & Recreation, the Office of Arts and Culture, and the Dallas Police Department.

With its fourth year now underway, the Summer of Safety campaign continues to set a strong example of how cities can work together to provide youth with safe, supportive, and positive experiences all summer long.