In 1994 Westchester County instituted a vigorous graffiti removal and deterrent program that has produced positive results.  The rapid response policy appears to discourage graffiti vandals.  This has been demonstrated by a reduction in the number of graffiti locations from 84 in 1995, 44 in 1996, to 31 in 1997.  Since the program was started in 1994, there has been a 63 percent reduction in the number of graffiti locations.

The program includes the removal of graffiti from the Putnam R.O.W., all county owned buildings, highways and bridges, including bridge abutments, their underside, wing walls and stone faces.  "Special" full time units have allowed for the aggressive quick response.  The continued commitment of funds for the special full time units has prevented interruptions of the graffiti removal operations and is the most important reason for the program's success.