Early Saturday evening, an individual with a violent past assaulted a family in the Civic Center Garage as they were leaving a youth hockey event at the Blue Cross Arena.
“This is unacceptable and damaging to both the family and the community. I have ordered immediate 24-7 security at the garage — an expansion of the security we already provide for Amerks hockey games and special events at the Arena,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “We are currently implementing a multi-faceted security improvement plan for the garage that we initiated last year following a security assessment. Everyone who parks at the Civic Center Garage for work or while attending events at the Blue Cross Arena should feel safe and secure.”
The county security plan includes:
- 24-7 security
- Enhanced LED lighting in all levels of at the garage
- Increased and improved video cameras throughout the garage
- Improvements to doors, entrances and physical structures
- Continued homeless outreach and placement with support systems and treatment
- Expanded “Order of Protection” policy to bar garage entry for those violating the law
- Increased coordination with the Blue Cross Arena on enhanced security for any event held at the arena
“We, along with Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, are committed to making downtown Rochester a safe and family-friendly environment for the community. We commend the efforts of the County and look forward to working with Adam Bello and his staff on making safety a top priority,” said Rochester Knighthawks Vice President of Business Operations Rob Minter.
Adding an around-the-clock presence required contracting with another security vendor to cover other county sites in order to divert more staff to the garage. The vendor is now in place, allowing for the enhanced security presence. The physical improvements are already underway with one level of the garage upgraded to LED lighting and the work on the remaining levels ongoing.
The county, along with community partners, conduct outreach to the homeless Monday – Friday at sites they frequent, including the Civic Center Garage. The goal is to place them in shelters, warming centers and hotels and provide necessary services. Currently, the county has placed some 70 individuals in safer housing with support services.
The county is currently investigating further efforts to maintain safety and security in the garage.
