Downtown Myrtle Beach sees a major drop in calls for service

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Downtown Myrtle Beach has undergone significant changes in recent years, and data indicate that these improvements are not only boosting the economy but also reducing crime.

Police records show a sharp decrease in calls for service in the city’s Arts and Innovation District.

In 2016, Myrtle Beach police responded to more than 400 calls in the area.

By 2024, that number had dropped to 57, and so far this year, only 20 calls have been reported.

“It’s a great deterrent in crime,” said Pfc. Stephie Parran, who has served with the Myrtle Beach Police Department for nearly three decades.

City officials credit the decline to revitalization efforts, which include new restaurants and shops, brighter lighting, and more police patrols.

Jason Greene, president of the Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, said the changes are helping transform the area into a family-friendly destination.

“It takes time to drive some good behavior downtown,” Greene said. “We have to play the long-term game as we continue to do things in the short term.”

The city’s Gold Cap Ambassador program has also played a role. Ambassador Mike Snow, who joined in 2020, said the initiative has made a noticeable difference.

“Definitely changed the dynamic down there,” Snow said. “It certainly made the area a lot more family-friendly.”

The impact extends beyond downtown. Midway Memorial Park, renovated in 2021 with new sidewalks, lighting, and pickleball courts, has also seen a steep drop in crime.

Calls for service dropped from 169 in 2020 to 31 in 2024.

This year, police have responded to just 17 calls.

“Pickleball really activated Midway Park,” Parran said. “It’s active pretty much morning, noon, and night, so that’s been a nice addition to the city.”

City leaders say more development projects are on the way to continue reducing crime and ensure Myrtle Beach remains a safe, thriving destination.

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