Columbia, Maryland has been voted the safest city in America for the third year in a row. Financial website, WalletHub, recently posted its list of safest cities for the year 2020. WalletHub has taken into account 182 cities across America and graded them based on certain criteria: safety, natural disaster risk, financial safety, and home and community. Among the 150 most populated cities in the US, including at least two of the most populated cities in every state, Columbia, Maryland took the first place title. 

Howard County Executive, Calvin Ball, had a few words to share on how he was feeling about the ranking. He said in a post on Twitter, “This accolade is a testament to the excellent quality of life we cherish in Howard County. For many of us, home is somewhere you feel secure and part of an inclusive community…” 

The Covid-19 outbreak brought challenges and the first responders of Columbia are working hard to help those who need it. In the spring, the Department of Fire and Rescue Services formed hospital liaisons to help with patient transfers of COVID-19. They also established a decontamination team to improve the hospital’s EMS transport processing time at the hospital. Fire Chief William Anuszewski said, “This designation is a testament to our residents and how they embrace a safe and engaged community plan featuring preparedness and prevention, our emergency responders credit the community partnership to maintaining Columbia as a safe city.”

Milton Matthews, president and CEO of the Columbia Association, stated, “This latest national ranking further proves that everyone living and working in Columbia is committed to creating a place where physical and mental health, financial opportunities and emergency response are an ongoing priority.” 

No place in the world perfect, but it’s nice to see that Columbia, Maryland has been acknowledged for it’s hardworking and caring community.