The program had its origins in the city's fiscal crisis in the 1970's in a study conducted by the Vera Institute of Justice. Vera's review of existing patrol operations and structures focused on ways to increase accountability, improve officers' knowledge of the community, and develop a proactive approach to order maintenance. Vera proposed a program in which community patrol officers would have four roles: planner, problem solver, community organizer, and information exchange link. Vera's plan called for a pilot project in one patrol precinct. The pilot project began in Brooklyn's 72nd precinct and was expanded in January 1985 to seven more precincts. Expansion has continued, and 64 units are now operating. Concerns arising during planning and implementation included the size of the beats, the evaluation of officer performance, and the potential for misconduct. Careful personnel selection and monitoring have helped address these concerns. The Vera Institute is now conducting a major evaluation of the expanded program. Notes.