Can safe ride programs reduce urban crime?

This study evaluates the influence of a safe ride program on neighborhood crime in a major urban area. Using an hours of the week panel, the program's operation is associated with an approximately 14% reduction in crime. The program being open appears to have roughly similar influences on different categories of crime. Moreover, increases in rides (the intensity of the program) are also associated with reductions in crime. Such increases in program intensity are also associated with notably greater reductions in crime occurring on weekends. The cost of the safe ride program suggests that it is a relatively efficient means of reducing crime.