Crossroads security improvements underway after Town Topic safety concerns
District adds private security, parking lot upgrades following April shooting
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Security upgrades are underway in the Crossroads district after Town Topic Hamburgers cited safety concerns that led to temporary service changes.
The Crossroads Community Improvement District met with parking lot ownership this week to implement security measures at a lot on the corner of Broadway and Southwest Boulevard. The district plans to add chains to limit access and secure the lot.
The district also hired Titan Protection, a private security company, to increase patrols in the area.
“Part of the purpose of the CID is to provide a higher level of neighborhood security,” said Rick Usher, executive director of the Crossroads Community Improvement District.
Changes follow April shooting
The security improvements come after Town Topic paused 24-hour service following crime in the area, including a shooting April 26.
“It was really disheartening to see that happening,” Usher said.
The restaurant announced May 13 it would close at 8 p.m. moving forward. Owners cited the shooting as straining their ability to keep staff and customers safe during overnight hours.
Town Topic announced Thursday it is returning to modified 24-hour service. The walk-up window is now open until 10 p.m., and DoorDash service is available from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m.
Parking lot security upgrades
Usher and his team met with the parking lot’s owner and parking manager to add security upgrades.
“Install a pipe and bollard system, basically to be able to secure the lot with a chain,” Usher said.
Derich Carlson, owner of BLVD Tavern next door, said the parking lot has been a problem for area businesses.
“That parking lot alone has pretty much been a thorn in everyone’s side down here,” Carlson said.
The district hired Titan Protection last week. The private security firm has seen increased demand from downtown businesses and organizations ahead of the World Cup.
“They’re doing everything we’ve expected them to do at this point,” Usher said.
Carlson said the goal is to make customers feel safe parking in the area.
“Making sure people feel comfortable coming down to this area,” Carlson said. “That’s definitely a very good thing, especially with all the ascetic improvements that they’ve been doing down here with the lane changes and the bike lanes. All that kinda stuff.”
Usher said the district wants to maintain the neighborhood’s character while improving safety.
“I’m really happy to be part of the solution and working with folks who’ve been so dedicated to the neighborhood for 25, 30, 40 years,” Usher said.
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