The Pittsburgh police department will speak with all South Side bar owners to talk about what they can do to prevent alcohol-fueled violence and other neighborhood problems, City Councilman Bruce Kraus said following a meeting with the department's top brass this morning.

Mr. Kraus scheduled the meeting with police Chief Nate Harper and other police officials after after three people were stabbed in two unrelated incidents about two weeks ago. But he's long complained about the need for better management of an entertainment district that's been the site of violent acts, litter, vandalism, public urination, noise and other problems.

Mr. Kraus said Chief Harper agreed to have police speak with the owner of every bar from Station Square to the South Side Works to reinforce the role they can play in keeping the neighborhood orderly and safe. Mr. Kraus said police officials told him they already were considering that step.

In addition, Mr. Kraus said Chief Harper agreed to assist him in developing an interdepartmental approach to the South Side's problems, an initiative that would involve the public works department, Bureau of Building Inspection and other city agencies.

"It was a very productive meeting, and I was very encouraged at the positive response of Chief Harper and the Bureau of Police to mitigating the problems that have grown in the East Carson corridor," Mr. Kraus said.

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