Downtown Oakland CBD & Lake Merritt CBD

Security Ambassadors are under the direction of a single Operations Manager and management structure. Security Ambassadors are responsible for patrolling on foot and bike to serve as additional ‘eyes and ears’ of the Oakland Police Department, while serving as a visible deterrent. Ambassadors will report all activity that is deemed to be out of the ordinary and engage low level quality of life crimes in order to seek compliance through verbal request. All Ambassadors will provide a high level of engagement with workers, residents and visitors to improve perceptions of safety in both districts.

Heard On The Street

Oakland, CA: “Not long ago, I took my daughter to an appointment in Downtown Oakland. Soon after getting there, I realized I had locked my keys in the car. I went to a couple of business on the street trying to get a coat hanger to see if we could open the car. But no luck. I then tried a gift shop – no hanger – but a very nice young man there said he would call the Ambassadors. A few minutes later, a couple of very nice, kind, and helpful young men showed up. They got the car open!

Before I could ask “how much?” they told me it was free of charge…they are here to help when people are in need. I can’t thank them enough, not only for their help, but for making a possible scary event feel so safe. Thanks to all!”

Joanne P.
Sacramento, CA

Oakland, CA: “As the new owner of a Downtown Oakland building, I wanted to personally thank the Security Ambassadors for their assistance on February 8th, 2012. At around 5 p.m. last night, a young male broke a very large glass window on the ground floor of the building. The Security Ambassadors downtown last night witnessed the incident and responded quickly to alert police.

The presence of the Security Ambassadors and their quick response were extremely helpful to us as building owners. The ambassadors were also kind enough to help clean the broken glass on the sidewalk to ensure a safer environment for pedestrians. We truly appreciate the positive contribution your program is making to downtown Oakland.

Tom H.
Downtown Oakland employee

Oakland, CA: "Thank you for running a program that is doing a lot of good for the downtown Oakland area.

 

I want to personally thank you and your ambassador for returning my stolen bag to me. Thank goodness for his keen sight and quick action for securing my bag. I am a huge fan of Block by Block and I will be sure to return to the downtown area as a patron. Keep up the good work!"

Alex G.
Downtown Oakland employee