Increased security will target crime hotspots in Brampton

Downtown Brampton areas identified as crime and safety hotspots are getting a security boost, with six additional guards, new cameras and a series of cleanup measures now in place to address concerns about illegal activity.

The enhanced security initiative, launched July 8, is focused in part on the area beneath the Nelson Street bridge, where residents have raised concerns about open drug use, loitering, public intoxication and other illegal activities.

As part of the one-month enhanced patrol initiative, six additional security guards have been deployed to city-owned properties, including parking garages, transit terminals, transit stops and other locations identified as requiring increased attention.

The added security presence will operate 12 hours a day, seven days a week, with staff focused on addressing concerns such as loitering, aggressive panhandling, trespassing, encampments, public intoxication and drug use.

Security personnel will focus on de-escalation, voluntary compliance and connecting individuals with community support services, while taking enforcement action when necessary.

Peel Regional Police will also support the initiative through a coordinated approach with City Security Services. Police will continue monitoring the area and respond to incidents requiring police intervention beyond the authority of municipal security staff.

The city has also installed high-resolution cameras inside bus shelters, allowing Security Services to monitor activity and respond to issues in real time.

Along with the increased security presence, several physical improvements have been completed around the area.

Large debris, including couches, has been removed from beneath the Nelson Street bridge and along the nearby boulevard. The area’s lighting has also been inspected and is now fully operational to improve visibility.

Parks and Roads staff have removed the flowerbed and retaining wall at the southeast corner of Main Street and Nelson Street East as part of efforts to improve the area.

The city has also closed areas behind the Züm shelters beneath the CN tracks and is working with Metrolinx to address activities occurring on Metrolinx-owned property.

Santos said improving safety requires both enforcement and additional support for people facing housing insecurity.

She said she will continue advocating for better access to crime reporting, clearer ways for residents to share information with police and stronger social support systems for vulnerable residents.

“The goal is to create a more proactive and responsive security network that supports a growing city while improving residents’ sense of safety,” Santos said.

The enhanced patrol initiative is scheduled to run for one month, after which the city will assess the impact of the increased security presence.