Overall crime in Birmingham Housing Authority communities has declined nearly 20 percent from this time last year, according to housing officials.

The 19.5 percent drop in overall crime is in part because of collaborative efforts among Birmingham Police Department (BPD), Housing Authority of Birmingham District (HABD) staff and residents, say officials.

“Any drop in crime is good but 19.5 percent is very significant because it shows that positive things are happening,” said Ken Foreman, Public Safety Director, HABD.

Of the 14 HABD housing communities, Elyton Village in West Birmingham, has seen the largest drop in overall crime with a 55 percent decrease.

The public housing community can expect to see a greater community police presence, updated guest list and trespass policies, neighborhood block watch, more security cameras and more community engagement efforts, HABD officials said.