It represents an effort to change policing from a largely reactive, incident-driving service to a more proactive, problem-solving practice. Community policing developed largely as an effort to stem community deterioration in urban areas. Research shows that it can reduce public fear, while increasing both citizen and police satisfaction. Key to improvements in troubled neighborhoods are approaches in which the police marshal resources from diverse organizations for the purpose of problem resolution. Although foot patrol programs have been weak in this liaison role, additional training and greater backup services may alleviate that problem. Clearly, the importance of the information linkage provided by ongoing foot patrols calls for its further development. Community policing programs are continually evolving to become more responsive to public needs. 4 notes and bibliography