ROCHESTER, NY — Dozens of people turned out Tuesday to hear the results of a community survey about the biggest issues facing Monroe Avenue in Rochester and share solutions.

About 1,000 people took the survey and only 15 percent say Monroe Avenue is safe. More than 68 percent agree that Monroe Avenue is ready to support new local businesses, but would like to see improved public safety.

“We took the survey because Monroe Avenue is not as safe as it used to be. I had my leg broken by criminals just last year,” said Lisa Jacques, owner of Park Avenue Pets.

Jacques shared her feedback on possible solutions to the crime.

“The revitalization of Monroe Avenue pretty much begins and ends with occupying the Monroe Theater with a business where people come in and out all day and is a vital part of the boulevard instead of an abandoned boarded-up hole in the boulevard with junkies. and homeless and drug dealers,” she said.

Others are asking people to sign a letter asking state lawmakers for public safety measures to help get repeat offenders off the streets.

“If we get at least 30,000 signatures, I promise you gun violence will change the safety of our streets will change,” one person said.

Ian White participated in the survey and says he is fighting for a safer Monroe Avenue and advocating for resources for those in need.

“My partner doesn’t like walking our dog at night – which I totally empathize with. That stuff saddens me more than anything,” White said.

About 100 people attended the Monroe Revitalization Coalition meeting, including neighbors, business owners, clergy, police and City Council members. They came together to celebrate the positive results of the survey, but also seek to improve the negative aspects, such as the lack of public safety.

The coalition will hold its next meeting, a brainstorming session, on December 2. The coalition also plans to apply for grants to bring more money to the neighborhood.

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