You can expect to see some changes in Mishawaka in a few months. The city is boosting police patrols at the river walk, parks and in the downtown area, but that's not all.

They're also putting up security cameras and emergency call boxes. The city hopes to have those cameras and call boxes up by this summer. The mayor says more and more families visit downtown Mishawaka and the city's parks each year and city leaders want them to feel as safe as possible.

The Mishawaka River Walk is one of Giselle Reinke's favorite places to walk her dog, Roxie.

"It's a really nice park. It's one of the nicest in the area," Reinke said.

City leaders say they're seeing a lot of families visit the river walk and the five parks along it. There's also more people in the downtown area. As these places become more popular, police plan to increase patrols. Once the weather warms up, one officer will be around nearly all the time.

"I think it would be a great idea," Reinke said.

The city will install up to thirty security cameras and six emergency call boxes, as well. They've even got some posts up already.

Mayor Dave Wood says there hasn't been a huge spike in crime in the downtown and park areas, but over the years they have seen nuisance cases like vandalism and they hope the extra patrols and security cameras will help deter that.

The city is also taking these measures to make visitors feel safer.

"I personally have never felt uncomfortable or unsafe out here, but I understand the need to have a little more security," said Twyla Kendrick, who frequents the river walk.

But not everyone appreciates the extra surveillance.

"Personally I come down here almost every day," said Jerry Steffens, who also visits the river walk. "I've never had any problems at all so I don't really see the need for it and I'm not so sure how I feel having surveillance cameras up, being watched as I walk down here."

While some people feel uncomfortable with the idea, the city hopes most see it as better protection.

The city plans to put out bids this spring for the security cameras and call boxes. There's no word yet on an estimated cost.