Achieve dramatic reductions in gun violence.

On June 21, 1999, Vice President Gore announced the formation of a new information network to help cities reduce gun violence through approaches that balance enforcement and prevention. The Safe Cities Network is helping link cities and communities across the country so that they can share best practices and promote the safety and security of our nation's streets. Cities committed to reducing gun violence form the core of the network, which is supported with technical assistance, access to expertise and by partnerships with Federal agencies and law enforcement officials. Assistance could range from advice on strategy and best practices to assistance with ballistics and firearms tracing.

The Safe Cities Network does not provide additional federal grants or dollars. Instead, it leverages information technology with existing funding and resources more effectively and connects communities and law enforcement agencies with best practices and with peers working on similar goals. It shares lessons-learned via the Safe Cities web site, and gives national recognition to communities for their results and work to improve public safety.

The Safe Cities Network is supported by an interagency partnership that includes: the COPS Office and the Office of Justice Programs in the Department of Justice; the Department of Treasury Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; and the National Partnership for Reinventing Government.