The St. Petersburg Police Department has unveiled a new initiative aimed at building stronger relationships with the residents they serve. It’s called “Park, Walk and Talk.” 

Officers spent time on Wednesday walking neighborhoods and talking to residents. They asked how things are going and what can police do make the city a better place to live.

“The best way to form that relationship isn't with officers driving around in their cars, but it's with officers getting out of the cars, walking the beat and talking again,” said St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman.

Chief of Police Anthony Holloway says he was able to find out about two crack houses by simply getting out into neighborhoods and talking to residents.

“We are going to come into the neighborhood ... visit with the people and we are going to address some of the issues they have in the neighborhood,” Chief Holloway said.

Under the new initiative, officers will be expected to park, walk and talk at least one hour a week and report back any resident feedback.