safety
Miami DDA expands safety efforts with self-defense classes, increased police presence downtown
By Steve Maugeri at CBS4 Miami
· July 13, 2026
· 2 min read
Miami residents are learning how to better protect themselves as the Miami Downtown Development Authority expands its efforts to improve public safety through self-defense training and enhanced security measures. Kylie Russell said she's lived in downtown Miami for nine years and has watched the are
Key takeaway Kylie Russell said she's lived in downtown Miami for nine years and has watched the area transform.
Why this matters in The Miami
The Miami Downtown Development Authority's efforts to improve public safety through self-defense classes and increased police presence are a welcome step towards addressing concerns in the rapidly growing downtown area. As the area transforms with new high-rises and businesses, the need for enhanced security measures becomes more pressing. The expansion of security cameras and license plate readers into Brickell, as well as the potential addition of a second police drone, will help to deter crime and improve response times. The decline in crime rates in Brickell and the central business district is a positive trend, and the DDA's collaborative approach with the Miami police and commission will be crucial in maintaining this momentum. As downtown Miami continues to evolve, it's essential that safety initiatives keep pace with the area's growth, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy all that the area has to offer without undue concern for their safety.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit CBS4 Miami . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 13, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Miami residents are learning how to better protect themselves as the Miami Downtown Development Authority expands its efforts to improve public safety through self-defense training and enhanced security measures. Kylie Russell said she's lived in downtown Miami for nine years and has watched the are
When was this published? This article was first published on July 13, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Steve Maugeri at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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