Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed on Tuesday cited “continued momentum” in public safety, emergency response, infrastructure, housing affordability and downtown development, backing the claim with new crime data and $50 million in federal grants secured during 2025.
Public safety
Over the past two years, the city recorded:
- A 78 percent drop in homicides
- A 40 percent decline in nonfatal shootings
- A 57 percent reduction in violent crime
- A 56 percent decrease in nonviolent Part I offenses
“The trend is moving in the right direction,” Reed said. “We’re building sustained momentum for a safer Montgomery—one powered by prevention, partnership and accountability.”
Storm response
The Emergency Management Agency kept warming centers open through last week’s freeze, while Public Works cut tree-related service calls from more than 100 to about a dozen within 12 hours. The city is waiving storm-debris fees and allowing unlimited curb-side placement for at least a week.
Montgomery Fire/Rescue contained a wind-driven grass fire on Congressman L. Dickerson Drive that destroyed three structures and injured no one. The cause remains under investigation.
Infrastructure
Reed recently joined the U.S. Conference of Mayors Local Infrastructure Hub to discuss grant compliance and federal funding strategies. In 2025 the city landed roughly $50 million for electric buses, clean-transit workforce training and HUD PRO Housing programs, and it continues to seek restoration of the rescinded $36.6 million Neighborhood Access and Equity grant.
“These national conversations are strategic,” Reed said. “They connect Montgomery to decision-makers, strengthen relationships and help us compete for the resources our residents deserve.”
Downtown
The city paid $5.5 million for 425 and 475 Molton Street, key parcels for a future convention center. Impact and marketing studies are nearly finished. Reed also confirmed “productive discussions” with the United Soccer League about bringing a professional franchise downtown.
Housing
WalletHub last month ranked Montgomery the nation’s most affordable city for homebuyers.
“Affordability matters,” Reed said. “It means teachers, first responders and young professionals can put down roots and build a future right here in Montgomery.”
Black History Month
Reed encouraged residents to visit The Legacy Museum, the Rosa Parks Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church and other civil-rights landmarks.
“In Montgomery, Black history is not just a month—it’s part of who we are,” he said. “Our progress is powered by memory, and that memory is alive here.”
State of the City
Reed will deliver the 2026 State of the City address at 5 p.m. on February 10 at Vaughn Forest Church. The theme is “Momentum.” Residents can also attend the upcoming Neighborhood Services Banquet honoring community leadership. Details are at MGMWins.com.
