The Downtown Boston Neighborhood Association said a cross-sector coalition of city and state officials, law enforcement, shelters and churches, institutional partners, business and trade associations and civic organizations has launched the One Downtown Task Force. It’s a strategic initiative aimed at improving public safety, reducing crime and homelessness, and enhancing the overall experience and quality of life for all who live, work, visit, and do business in Downtown Boston and surrounding neighborhoods.

Co-chaired by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, the 10-member Task Force is charged with driving measurable outcomes by coordinating efforts and aligning resources across several agencies and organizations. Focus areas include congregate drug use, criminal activity including retail theft, and homelessness.

Embedded within the Task Force is the Joint Strategic Action Team (JSAT), a cross-functional group composed of public officials, city and state agencies, law enforcement, shelter and outreach leaders, and civic organizations. Leveraging the group’s collective expertise, perspective, and resources, JSAT will work closely with Task Force leadership to deliver coordinated, area-wide solutions.

The Task Force is expected to remain active through the fall, providing a full spring, summer and fall cycle to implement targeted strategies, make adjustments and measure impact.