Syracuse's near westside neighborhood was filled with music Thursday night. It's an area that has struggled with crime, but neighbors are taking big steps to take back their streets.

Thursday there were two big events, first the 2nd annual Multicultural Block Party in Skiddy Park followed by Jazz in the City, an outdoor concert series.

"It's just something to bring our kids together peacefully.  Show them violence is not the way, you can have fun without drugs or alcohol," said parent Dashama Cannon.

The events mark a few steps in a big effort to revitalize the Syracuse's Westside. Syracuse University has led the way, and several other businesses have relocated nearby. The most recent is WCNY, announcing it will set up a state of the art television studio in this community.

"WCNY moving in is going to a great opportunity for the kids. The education studio is going to be very important for them," said Mary Alice Smothers with the Westside Initiative. 

"Our westside community has taken pride in our community and if all sides do that I think we will have a better city to live in," said Cannon.