Creative Placemaking and Community Safety: Addressing Crime in Riverdale Park

Abstract

This project explores how creative placemaking can serve as a strategy to reduce crime rates and foster community connection in Riverdale Park, Maryland. Despite a general decline in crime across Prince George’s County, the public remains concerned about crime in Riverdale Park, particularly youth involvement in carjackings and violence. The town center, though rich in potential and local assets like small businesses and a farmers market, lacks inclusive, green, and welcoming public space. Our research focuses on how creative placemaking can activate this space to promote safety and belonging. The resulting recommendation is for a recurring community arts event that offers youth safe, creative alternatives to crime. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a literature review, case study analysis, and interviews with stakeholders, including local business owners, law enforcement, urban planners, and arts council representatives. Our findings suggest that community-centered design, cultural engagement, and environmental enhancements can reduce crime and support youth development. While our study is limited by its short timeline, lack of long-term impact data, and gaps in community input, the recommendations are grounded in local voices and evidence-based practices. By activating Riverdale Park’s underutilized spaces, this project aims to foster social cohesion, elevate community identity, and lay the groundwork for sustainable, arts-driven revitalization.