Baltimore city officials have increased security measures by expanding the use of private security at municipal buildings and enhancing police patrols in key entertainment districts amid concerns about recent youth disturbances. The move comes as the city approaches the peak summer tourism season, seeking to reassure local businesses and visitors.

Last week, Baltimore’s Board of Estimates approved a three-year contract with Allied Universal Security Services, allowing for up to $30 million in security services over the life of the agreement. The contract includes two optional one-year renewals but does not raise the overall spending cap. Allied Universal officers will provide security and access control at city-owned facilities, working both independently and alongside Baltimore police at locations such as City Hall and the Abel Wolman Municipal Building. City officials say the arrangement offers a cost-effective and flexible solution that enables the Police Department to allocate officers to higher-priority assignments in the community.

The enhanced security strategy follows several weeks of highly publicized incidents involving teenagers in and around Fells Point, which led to concerns among local business owners about the potential impact on summer crowds. Several proprietors in Fells Point expressed apprehension that disturbances could deter customers during one of the neighborhood’s busiest periods.

In response, Baltimore police have pledged a heightened law enforcement presence throughout the summer in entertainment hubs including Fells Point, the Inner Harbor, Downtown, and Federal Hill. Police spokesperson Lindsey Eldridge stated that the department is implementing comprehensive summer crime initiatives, with increased deployments planned for holidays and major events. She noted that specialized units were active during the recent Sail250 celebration, collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies under an extensive public safety plan. While overtime was utilized for some officers, the department managed costs by adjusting schedules to assign shifts during regular hours. Eldridge emphasized that detailed operational plans and exact officer deployments are not publicly disclosed to maintain safety and effectiveness.

Private security has been a familiar element in Fells Point’s nightlife environment. Businesses such as Fat Tuesday routinely employ private security personnel as part of their operations. Rob George, a representative from the establishment, said the security presence during Sail250 was consistent with their normal practice and described a cooperative relationship with Baltimore police that helped support a safe atmosphere for guests and staff.

The recent combination of increased private security at city facilities and the Police Department’s expanded summer patrols represents a multifaceted approach to managing public safety amid one of Baltimore’s most active tourism seasons in recent memory. Officials continue to monitor the situation and adjust strategies to maintain order and confidence among residents, businesses, and visitors.