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Erie launches Blue Coats presence pilot in Perry Square

City Council approved a Perry Square partnership with the Blue Coats. Redirected police overtime funds will support the community-presence pilot.

ERIEBIZTODAY BRIEFPublished October 8, 2026 at 11:10 AM EDT

Erie and the Blue Coats have launched a community-presence pilot in Perry Square following unanimous City Council approval on October 7, TalkErie reported. Trained team members and supervisors will work with residents, visitors and city staff.

The program uses redirected police overtime funding. Its stated purpose is to support safety and relationships through a consistent presence in the park.

An ErieBizToday briefing examining the news and its implications for Pennsylvania businesses and communities, drawing on the sources and further reporting linked below.