Dallas launches "Summer of Safety" offering free and low-cost youth programs

Mayor Eric Johnson and Dallas Police Chief Daniel Como on Tuesday announced the return of the city's "Summer of Safety," a series of free and low-cost activities intended to engage children and teens and support public-safety goals.

"The summer of safety is back this year to keep our youth engaged and our city safe all summer," Mayor Eric Johnson said, introducing the program. Chief Daniel Como said Dallas "has brought violent crime down for 4 years in a row, and we want to continue making Dallas the safest big city in America," framing the initiative as part of that effort.

Organizers outlined a range of activities available to children and teenagers, including discounted tickets to sporting events; music and language classes at Dallas Public Libraries; access to Dallas Aquatic Centers to stay cool; camps at recreation centers; art exhibits at cultural centers; and fitness and self-defense classes led by Dallas Police officers.

Speakers did not specify exact start dates, registration deadlines, costs for "low-cost" items, or funding sources during the brief announcement. Presenters instead directed viewers to a QR code shown on-screen for more details and enrollment information.

The city described the program as a community engagement and public-safety measure; the claim that violent crime has fallen for four straight years was made by Chief Como during the event and was not independently substantiated in the remarks. City officials did not provide supporting statistics or documentation during this announcement.

Officials said the Summer of Safety program will be available across Dallas at libraries, aquatic centers, recreation centers and cultural venues. Those interested were told to consult the QR code displayed during the event or official City of Dallas channels for full schedules and registration instructions.