A recent report has revealed alarmingly high crime rates in four Pennsylvania cities, ranking them among the most dangerous in the United States. McKees Rocks, Darby, Chester, and McKeesport are particularly concerning due to their elevated crime rates and frequent violent incidents.
McKees Rocks
McKees Rocks, known as “The Rocks,” is a borough in Allegheny County and is considered the most dangerous place to live in Pennsylvania. With a population of 5,920, it has a crime rate of 6,409 per 100,000 people, making it 173% more dangerous than the national average. In 2022, there were 106 violent crimes and 262 property crimes, which are high numbers for such a small population.
Darby
Darby is one of the most violent cities in Pennsylvania. In 2021, there were 152 murders in a population of 10,667. Property crime is also very high, with 4,625 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents have a 1 in 22 chance of being a crime victim. Additionally, the poverty rate is high, with the average income being less than $35,000 a year.
Chester
Chester is one of the most dangerous cities in Pennsylvania. Located near Philadelphia in Delaware County, it has 32,605 residents. Chester often appears on lists of the worst cities to live in the U.S. due to its high crime rates and political corruption. The crime rate is 116% higher than the state average, with 4,389 crimes per 100,000 people. In 2021, the median home price in Chester was only $66,800.
McKeesport
McKeesport, a city in Allegheny County, PA, has a population of 17,727. It is considered dangerous, with a crime rate of 4,291 incidents per 100,000 people, meaning residents have a 1 in 24 chance of becoming crime victims. In 2021, there were 332 violent crimes and 542 property crimes reported. The city also faces issues with poverty and unemployment, with a median household income of only $26,271.
Measures to Improve Safety
To improve safety in McKees Rocks, Darby, Chester, and McKeesport, several measures are being implemented:
1. Real-Time Response Systems: These systems use multiple data sources like dispatch information, video sensors, and records to give public safety officials a real-time overview of the city. This helps them respond quickly to emergencies.
2. 5G Connectivity: Reliable 5G connectivity supports advanced public safety technology, including prioritized network access during crises, intelligent video monitoring, and AI-powered analytics.
3. Public Transport Safety: Enhancing public transport with dedicated bus lanes, marked crossings, and easy pedestrian access ensures safer travel for commuters.
4. Data Analysis: By analyzing traffic and crime data, cities can identify problem areas and implement targeted solutions, such as adjusting delivery schedules to avoid peak cyclist times.
5. Complete Streets: Designing streets that are safe for everyone, not just cars, by including dedicated spaces for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport.
6. Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: Creating spaces like pedestrian-only streets, plazas, and bike lanes to reduce fatalities and injuries.
7. Urban Design Principles: Prioritizing safety in city design by avoiding urban sprawl, slowing down traffic, and providing a connected network for cyclists and pedestrians.
These measures aim to enhance public safety by improving the flow and use of information and implementing targeted solutions to address specific safety issues in these cities.
Conclusion
The recent report highlights the urgent need for effective crime prevention strategies in McKees Rocks, Darby, Chester, and McKeesport. With crime rates significantly higher than the national average, it is crucial for residents and authorities to collaborate in addressing the root causes of these issues. By enhancing law enforcement efforts and improving security measures, these cities can work towards reducing their crime rates and ensuring a safer environment for their residents.