Richland County is giving residents a chance to learn about resources and strategies for keeping their neighborhoods safe and prosperous.
By relaunching SPEED (Sustainability, Planning, Education, Engagement, Development), the County’s Neighborhood Improvement Program (NIP) aims to promote strong community relationships between neighborhoods and law enforcement. First launched in 2020, SPEED is a yearlong program featuring events geared toward training and engaging the community.
To mark the relaunch, NIP will hold an event, “Staying Safe with SPEED,” from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 20 in County Council Chambers, located in the County Administration Building, 2020 Hampton St., Columbia. Residents can sign up to attend via Eventbrite: https://safe-with-speed.eventbrite.com.
“Through SPEED events, we hope to empower community leaders in Richland County,” said Marc Ridlehoover, a neighborhood planner for the County. “This event provides an avenue for leaders to connect with those who are working to keep their neighborhoods safe and to provide a steppingstone for building a strong relationship between the community and law enforcement.”
At the event, residents can talk with Sheriff’s Department staff to learn about community-oriented policing methods being used in their neighborhoods. Residents can also find out about Serve & Connect, an organization that works to build bonds and foster communication between communities and police.
As this event is indoors, face coverings will be required, and physical distancing measures will be enforced.
To keep up with SPEED events throughout the year, visit the County website: www.richlandcountysc.gov, and navigate to the Neighborhood Planning events page. For more information, email NIP@richlandcountysc.gov.