Dayton

Ohio, USA

Dayton, Ohio, founded in 1796 and home to over 140,000 residents, is celebrated as the birthplace of aviation, funk music, and a hotspot of innovation with inventions like the cash register and pop tab. The city also played a pivotal role in World War II and is renowned for the Dayton Accords, which facilitated peace in the Balkans.

Population137,644

Elevation226 m

Area147.52 km ²

Our Work

To address urban violence in Dayton, several initiatives are underway.

The Mayor is looking for funding for a Violence Interruption program, set to launch in 2025, which will connect at-risk youth with licensed professionals to steer them away from street violence.
In response to reckless driving, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Mayor Jeffrey Mims, Jr. have introduced House Bill 56, creating new criminal penalties for dangerous driving behaviors like “hooning” and for obstructing police.
To tackle issues related to out-of-state-run group homes, the Dayton City Commission has implemented a 180-day moratorium on new applications for youth group homes while seeking solutions.
Additionally, over US$2 million has been allocated for demolishing abandoned houses, part of the Dayton Recovery Plan, which aims to clear about 1,100 structures over several years. Police are also increasing patrols to manage illegal house parties and mitigate violence.

Challenges Facing Dayton

Dayton faces escalating challenges with youth gun violence and reckless driving, particularly “hooning” activities like drifting and burnouts. The influx of out-of-state-run groups and transitional homes strains city resources and contributes to rising crime, while abandoned houses, often used for illegal parties, are prone to violence and fires caused by homeless squatters. These issues collectively place a heavy burden on the city’s police, fire services, and overall safety.

Achievements

The Dayton Recovery Plan invests over US$18 million in housing improvements, focusing on key neighborhoods. It includes rehabilitating at least 20 vacant homes and funding critical roof repairs for up to 80 homes through Habitat for Humanity. The plan supports the demolition of around 660 nuisance structures, aiming to clear approximately 1,100 by 2026. In 2023, 183 structures were demolished, and by July 2024, 145 more were cleared.

Additionally, the Mayor’s annual Teen Youth Summit, expected to engage 300 teens in 2024, promotes health, leadership, and career development to cultivate future Dayton leaders.

$18M

is invested by the Dayton Recovery Plan in housing improvements

20

vacant homes are being rehabilitated

80

homes are being repaired through Habitat for Humanity

660

nuisance structures are being demolished

1,110

nuisance structures should be cleared by 2026

300

teens will be engaged through the Mayor's annual Teen Youth Summit in 2024

Photo Gallery

A brick street with retail stores on the left and people walking on the sidewalk and down the street in Dayton, Ohio

Construction workers using a large Komatsu machine demolish a white house

Testimonial

The City of Dayton's involvement in Peace in Our Cities has facilitated international collaboration and learning about crime reduction strategies. In September 2023, our Police Chief, Kamran Afzal attended a seminar in Atlanta focused on the REPAIR program, which aligns with the city's efforts to promote safety and human rights. This experience has solidified Dayton's commitment to working with Peace in Our Cities and other organizations to address these challenges.

Adama Diakhate, Legislative Aid, City of Dayton

Reports

Dayton, OH – CSG Justice Center

Dayton Mediation Center | HOME

Police Reform | Dayton, OH (daytonohio.gov)

Urbanization, Peace, and Security

September 2024

The City of Pelotas in Brazil: Example of a Balanced Approach