As part of its periodic stakeholders’ meetings the Greenbelt City Council met with Franklin Park management on November 29 to receive an update on what’s happening within that community. Topics discussed included crime, communications with residents, recycling conditions in the apartment complex and more.
On most of these topics, council offered advice on city services and other information that could be helpful to Franklin Park management.
Residents
Franklin Park is a diverse community, said Denise Knight, director of resident services, including undergraduate and graduate students, military, government and Metro-oriented employees. She did not have information on the demographics of the community but noted “we’re a melting pot.” Between 60 and 65 percent of units are occupied by families as determined by the number of residents. Rents range from $1,199 to $2,249 per month, depending on the number of bedrooms.
Help Needed
When asked whether there is any area where Franklin Park needs the city’s help, Knight quickly responded “youth activities.” They need more to do, she said.
Crime
Acting Chief of Police Thomas Kemp said that crime is still near a 10-year low. While there has been a slight increase in crime recently, there has been no spike in crimes against people or property in Franklin Park. He mentioned that he will be having another “coffee with the chief” at noon on Thursday, December 7 at Beltway Plaza, although, as was pointed out, many residents will be working and unable to attend. Another safety issue raised was the adequacy of lighting in the complex. Kemp said that the police perform lighting surveys to identify areas that may be attractive to criminals. Franklin Park has vastly improved lighting and has implemented the department’s suggestions, Kemp noted.
Capital Improvements
Aaron Martin, project manager, reported that so far this year Franklin Park has spent $4.5 million on capital improvements. The old laundry rooms, since replaced with a centralized laundry facility, have been secured and there are no plans to do anything further with these buildings. For more on this story, click here