ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — After Governor Hochul's recent announcement of shootings with injuries dropping statewide, Mayor Evans shared details about Rochester's decline in gun violence. Mayor Evans began by saying the gun violence state of emergency is working, but the amount of gun violence in Rochester has gone down — back to a pre-pandemic level. He says over the past five years, shootings declined from approximately 225 per year to approximately 150. Chief David Smith reports, in addition to the decline in shootings, that homicides are at 42 compared to last year's 49 at this time. He says the reduction of numbers is due to guns being taken off the streets, holding individuals responsible for violent crime accountable, and the Non-Fatal Shootings Unit. Hochul: Rochester sees significant decrease in shootings "We can't solve crime alone as I've said many times nor are we going to arrest our way out of the problems our city faces," Chief Smith said. "We need the trust and the help of our community." With that in mind, Mayor Evans added any number of shootings is still too many. He said he instructed the Rochester Police Department to treat any acts of gun violence as if it were a homicide. Chief Smith notes the East and Entertainment District remains an issue. This weekend, RPD will increase officers and security personnel and only those over 21 will be able to access the area. Additionally, the new Group Violence Intervention Program will target groups bringing organized violence to the community. Evans added that, despite crime going down, an important part is making sure residents in Rochester feel safe. "A city that is not only safer but feels safer, that's what we want," said Mayor Evans. "When it comes to public safety, as I've learned anything in this job from the past two years and nine months, is that perception is just as important as reality." In addition, Mayor Evans said murder, violent crime, and property crime is down, but reiterates he is not satisfied with the numbers the city is reporting. The mayor announced multiple changes over the summer to address illegal gatherings and gun violence such as early park closures and continuing to extend the gun violence state of emergency. The city said they are continuing to combat illegal gatherings, including a recent attempt where they shut down an illegal nightclub and closed a restaurant until November due to dirt bike and ATV issues. Mayor Evans said at the beginning of the year that crime prevention is a top priority to focus on in 2024 and according to a recent report, the number of shootings with injuries has gone down in Rochester. Full Press Conference You can watch the full live-stream in the video player above.