Jyväskylä extends city centre security patrols by at least two years

Jyväskylä will continue its trial of private security patrols in the city centre for a minimum of two years, public broadcaster Yle reports, following positive feedback from businesses and local authorities.

The initiative, launched last summer along Kauppakatu and surrounding areas, involves two uniformed security officers patrolling on foot to reduce public disorder and improve perceived safety. Under the extended agreement, patrol hours will shift from 10:00–18:00 to 11:00–19:00 daily, starting 2 June.

The annual cost of €121,000 will again be split between the city—covering roughly half—and participating shopping centres, with the Keski-Suomi wellbeing services county also contributing. Securitas, the current provider, retained the contract after a competitive tender described by city manager Heli Leinonkoski as “slightly more cost-effective” than the previous deal.

Leinonkoski noted that the presence of patrols had “clearly influenced the street environment,” with businesses and residents reporting improved conditions. The new contract includes options for two one-year extensions, allowing for longer-term planning.

The public-private partnership model is the first of its kind in Finland.