Randy Bright
This method cost 2%.
“I can remember 30 years ago when the city’s stroll area was on the other side of town, which was then the rundown part of the city. As redevelopment occurred in that area, Scott Avenue started to show signs of decay. The small shopping district in the 200-300 blocks began to lose business and stores began losing money. The only businesses left were bars and a liquor store. These establishments saw a complete change in clientele. The success of the upper end of Scott Avenue brought more attention to the prostitution problem. I think this same success has contributed to the very problem they want addressed. Customers of the upper end establishments often drive through the lower blocks to either solicit prostitutes, or more commonly, just to harass them.”
Response Revealed
Establish a highly visible police presence.
Show/Hide DetailsA highly visible police presence, typically with extra uniformed officers, is intended to discourage area street prostitution. Extra police presence is expensive, of course, and is effective only if the police follow it up with more permanent strategies. It can also create the perception that the area is unsafe. Alternative methods to establish a police presence are to open a police station (e.g., a storefront office, mobile office or kiosk) in the area, or affix antiprostitution warning signs to police vehicles patrolling the area. Private security forces might also be deployed to supplement a police presence.
Response Revealed
Redevelop the area economy.
Show/Hide DetailsBecause street prostitution markets flourish under marginal economic conditions, economic redevelopment is often necessary to permanently eliminate street prostitution from the area.
New businesses emerge to replace those that supported street prostitution. Economic redevelopment usually requires a substantial investment of government and private resources. Street prostitution may be displaced to even more vulnerable areas.
