The Burlington Business Association is forming a safety escort program for downtown workers leaving their jobs at night, following increased violent incidents in the city.
Between 10 p.m. at 3 a.m. downtown employees will be able to call or text requesting a trained security professional to escort them to their car or transportation.
A 2021 survey conducted by the Church Street Marketplace found 53 percent of those who responded said they felt unsafe or very unsafe in Burlington’s downtown at night.
The program is being created in the aftermath of Burlington Police Department budget cuts which have led to short-staffing overnight.
The business group is working to find private funding to pay for private security services.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Contents © copyright 2021. All rights reserved.
