Why Charlotte police are driving around with their blue lights on

Zoom out: Blue lights programs have been tested and executed nationally, including in Wilmington, N.C., where it's been generally well received.

The big picture: CMPD is battling a rising perception that Uptown and the rest of the city are unsafe.

• The department says residents consistently ask to see officers more in their neighborhoods.

Flashback: In 2022 and 2023, CMPD posted cruisers with lights on in Uptown around the transit center. The department said it received positive feedback about the officers' presence in those areas.