Center City District Public Safety

Public safety by the numbers, 2025

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interactions with pedestrians by CSRs

0 days a year, patrols helping deter crime

0 unhoused people connected to services

Community Service Representatives (CSRs)

For more than 30 years, CSRs have been a welcoming and helpful presence in Center City, patrolling on foot in distinctive teal uniforms. Equipped with two-way radios, first-aid gear, and maps, they’re ready to provide directions, administer first aid, or request police support if needed.

What do CSRs do?

Help visitors navigate and explore Center City

Report incidents to police when response is needed

Offer first aid and and trained to provide CPR when necessary

Monitor and report cleanliness and maintenance issues

Check in regularly with Center City businesses

CSRs in the community

From Market East to Rittenhouse Square, CSRs patrol daily, ready to greet and assist anyone who needs help. You’ll find them near major transit hubs, in popular parks like Dilworth and Sister Cities, and along bustling corridors lined with shops, restaurants, offices, and cultural destinations.

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A friendly woman in a teal and white uniform, holding flyers, smiles while handing out information in a park. She wears a cap and carries a tablet.

CSRs are a welcoming presence throughout Center City.

A man demonstrates CPR on a dummy in a classroom setting. He appears focused and professional, with chairs and tables visible in the well-lit room.

They are trained in first aid and CPR.

They provide directions and recommendations.

CSRs patrol in uniform and serve as a deterrent to crime.

Security officer in a white uniform and cap stands by a street post labeled

They survey the downtown to report issues needing cleaning or repair.

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Public safety teams

Bicycle and foot patrols provide a visible, uniformed presence in high-traffic areas, transit hubs, and parks, enhancing public safety and fostering relationships with businesses.

Two cyclists ride past brick buildings with storefronts. A person seated at a table holds a dog, evoking a casual, lively street scene.

Bicycle safety patrol

CCD bicycle patrols are on the streets every day, maintaining a safe environment and ready to quickly respond to anyone who needs assistance.

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Two cyclists in yellow jackets ride past a brick building with a striped awning. A few pedestrians and a seated person are visible, conveying an urban scene.

Bike patrol check up on businesses within CCD.

Two cyclists wearing yellow jackets ride on a red bike lane towards a historic, ornate building under a green traffic light on a city street.

CCD pike patrol are a visible deterrent to crime.

A uniformed cyclist rides confidently down an urban street, lined with tall buildings under a clear sky. The street sign reads

Bike patrol ride the streets available to help when needed.

Two uniformed security personnel ride bicycles down a city street, lined with tall buildings. They wear helmets and appear focused and alert.

Bike patrol is active throughout the city including on Market St.

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Public safety partnerships

Teams work closely with the Philadelphia Police Department, transit police, and emergency service agencies to share information, address community concerns, and ensure quick, coordinated responses where needed.

Police officers engage in a conversation on a city sidewalk. One gestures to the side. People walk by and sit on benches amid urban greenery.

Helping those most vulnerable

Our outreach workers visit daily with people experiencing homelessness across Center City, building the trust needed to help them transition off the street. From there, teams connect them with medical care, mental health support, and emergency shelter. This approach serves those most in need while keeping public spaces welcoming and accessible for everyone.

Learn More

Two people in bright vests with backpacks talk to a seated man at a doorway, seeming to offer assistance. The scene conveys empathy and outreach.

FAQ

What should I do if I see graffiti or a safety concern?

If you encounter a true emergency, call 911. If the issue is not as urgent, contact us at 215.440.5500, via email at info@centercityphila.org, or by filling out the Report a Problem form.

Report a Problem

What should I do if I see an unsheltered person on the sidewalk?

Businesses, residents and members of the public can provide locations of individuals with whom our outreach teams should engage by emailing outreach@centercityphila.org.

Where can I apply for a job with CCD?

Visit our Careers page to see open positions at the CCD. Don’t see the job you are looking for? Check back regularly and create a candidate profile on the Careers Portal to be considered for future openings.

Apply Today