MINNEAPOLIS — New lights are shining on Dinkytown — literally.

On Monday night, officials turned on the switch for new sidewalk lights in the student-populated area near the U of M campus. It's part of the "Dinky After Dark" initiative, which aims to curb crime.

"There was a significant lack of lighting to support this key group in regards to basic livability within a major metropolitan area," said Siya Shelar, Director of Local Affairs at the U of M. "An issue this ordinance begins to address in an ongoing effort to enhance the economic vibrancy and safety of Dinkytown."

According to data from UMPD, reports of thefts, auto thefts, burglaries, assaults and drugs all decreased from 2022 to 2024. But data from the Minneapolis Crime Dashboard shows "shots fired" calls in the Marcy-Holmes n

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