City Surveillance Cameras Will Also Transmit High-Speed Internet Access
The City of Buffalo plans to start a $4.4 million pilot project this spring involving five surveillance cameras placed in high-crime areas. The cameras will also be able to transmit broadband Internet connectivity at no cost citywide.
Later in 2007, the initiative will broaden to 32 cameras installed near schools, in business districts, and near border crossings.
Dorothy A. Johnson, executive director of the state control board, which endorsed the city’s plan on March 22, 2007, is confident the surveillance effort will help the city dispatch its police officers more effectively. “This is a way that they can make the smartest use of their personnel,” she said.
The initiative is just one part of a $10 million bundle of projects advocated by Mayor Byron W. Brown and approved by the control board. Other approved projects include a 311 calling system for non-emergency problems and pay-and-display parking meters. Brown now hopes to secure $1 million in federal funds to enlarge the surveillance program to include up to 45 cameras.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC) from the Buffalo News (03/22/07); P. B1; Meyer, Brian.