Since the LAPD deployed 40 foot officers in the Hollywood and Highland area earlier this year crime has dropped considerably, city officials announced today. An overall reduction in crime has dropped 26% and more specifically, there has been a 21% drop in robberies, 29% decrease in burglaries and a 40% percent decline in auto theft.

Why such an increase in policing? "Hollywood has long been the economic engine of our city, attracting people from all over the world," said Mayor Villaraigosa in a statement this afternoon. "In order in to secure the renaissance that has occurred here, we need to be able to assure the safety of the people who live, work and visit this iconic destination."

The city says the foot deployment has helped officer respond more efficiently in the increasingly dense neighborhood. Over the past ten years, more than $2 billion has been invested to bring the area back from the days of sketchiness. Between now and early 2010, 6,000 more residential units and 30 commercial projects are expected to open. The City Council this week approved a $30 million federal loan to help bring Cirque du Soleil to the Kodak Theatre.