Toronto police say they are expanding a pilot project that saw dozens of officers engaging with community members and local organizations.

Chief Mark Saunders says the program was a success and will now be rolled out to more neighbourhoods in the city.

Police say 44 officers were involved in the pilot project.

The expanded program will see nearly 130 officers working in 35 neighbourhoods.

Saunders says each officer will be posted for at least four years in order to get to know the community better.

The announcement comes as the city deals with a spike in gun violence.