Grime: The Mid America Regional Council (MARC) Solid Waste Management District Grant was utilized to improve a specific alleyway. The improvement plan included installing multilingual signage, wireless trail cameras, and lights to monitor activity. 

The plan was to clean up the area and provide a more sanitary and safe environment for the community. After the plan was implemented, there was a noticeable decrease in the amount of trash and litter found in the alleys and surrounding area of The Avenue. This not only improved the appearance of the area, but also helped to reduce the risk of health hazards and safety concerns associated with large amounts of waste. 

Crime: According to statistics presented by Titan Security, there has been an increase in activity such as loitering and suspicious persons in the public area surrounding the Express Stop at 3400 Independence Avenue.

The Avenue Angels have been receiving many calls regarding repeat offenders and homeless outreach. Laura Caldwell, the CID’s Avenue Ambassador Coordinator, provided statistics for the newly implemented free Narcan program. The free Narcan program has saved over 10 lives along the Independence Avenue corridor with 100 doses taken from the boxes so far.

Chime: The Chamber organized an Un-Job Fair that provided networking opportunities for job seekers, employers, and social service agencies. The fair was aimed at connecting individuals looking for work with employers who are hiring. Recruiters from various organizations such as CSL Plasma, The Mattie Rhodes Center, The Tamale Kitchen, City Union Mission, and Healing House participated in the event.

The Chamber’s monthly Coffee and Culture events have also been very popular among attendees. These events are designed to promote and support local, refugee, and immigrant-owned businesses.