New Program Sheds Light On Philadelphia Alleys
By Tim Jimenez
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Streets Department is trying to light up some dark, dangerous alleys throughout the city.
Members of a two-month old job training program for at-risk youth are playing a big role.
There are about 150 young people who are part of the Philly Future Track Program.
Philadelphians, ages 18 to 24, earn a paycheck while cleaning up their lives and their city.
Clarena Tolson is the Streets Department Commissioner, she says "through their efforts they will see that they should become a beacon and not a negative light in their communities."
They're shedding light by cleaning up.
Tolson says the department is trying to install LED lights in dark alleys in higher risk neighborhoods.
Trash piling up created an obstacle for electricians until the Philly Future Trackers started to move.
"We've heard that the nuisance complaints, in particular in Southwest and West Philadelphia are down for alleys." Tolson goes on to say, " there is more lighting and less crime so far; this team effort bringing results, so we're seeing a synergy that is allowing 1 plus 1 to equal 5 and it's been wonderful."
