Closing roads along Bissonnet Street track saves money and stops crime, HPD says

In Houston, Texas (KTRK), the Houston Police Department reports a significant decrease in crime along the Bissonnet track since the closure of roads in the area aimed at curbing rampant prostitution.

To deter illicit activities, six metal gates were installed on Centre Parkway, Sugar Branch Drive, Alberene Drive, and Plainfield Street, blocking access from the Southwest Freeway to Bissonnet. These gates operate daily from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Previously, HPD incurred a monthly cost of $60,000 in overtime for setting up and removing temporary barricades. Commander Reece Hardy of HPD’s Westside Division noted that closing the loop used by “Johns” to pick up prostitutes effectively addressed the problem.

In late 2023, HPD’s westside division collaborated with Pct. 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones to implement permanent gates. The fully installed gates have contributed to a 22% decrease in violent crime in the area.

Remi Ellison, owner of WOW African Hair Braiding, described the change as “remarkable,” with customers feeling safer accessing her salon.

Various leaders from state, city, county, and local levels gathered to acknowledge the success, including Councilman Edward Pollard, who made shutting down the Bissonnet track a priority after receiving a letter from a concerned third grader.

Since the street closures, prostitution has reportedly shifted to other parts of the city and state, albeit not to the same severity as on Bissonnet Street. Hardy mentioned that traffickers are now promoting merchandise advocating for the reopening of Bissonnet, prompting efforts to address prostitution in other areas of Houston.

Hardy emphasized the need for customized solutions, considering factors like residential impact and exploring innovative strategies beyond street closures to tackle prostitution pockets in different parts of the city.