LOCKPORT, N.Y. – Two more school districts and a university are investing in CCTV equipment to deter crime.
The Lockport School Board has given the green light to pursue $1.42 million in funds to upgrade its current district security system. In a unanimous decision, the board will set forth a proposition on May 15, the day of the annual district budget vote, that seeks public approval for the project. District officials report that more than $184,000 of the project would be covered by Expanding Our Children’s Education and Learning funding.
The project calls for 272 new security cameras to be installed district wide, replacing existing outdated equipment. Intercom-camera systems would be implemented at the schools’ main entrances so staff can view and speak with visitors before authorizing entry. Improved parking lot lighting, proximity readers and coded passes would also be put in place to help enhance safety and control campus entry.
In Cumberland, Md., $811,000 has been budgeted to enhance school security equipment. Allegany County Superintendent of Schools Bill AuMiller tentatively plans to have security cameras installed at all district school entrances by the start of the next school year. While pursuing additional grant funding to further improve security equipment, district officials stress proper training of faculty and staff as crucial. According to AuMiller, strengthened security has been a priority for the district even before a string of school shootings nationwide.
Vanderbilt University of Nashville, Tenn., will have security cameras installed on its escort service vehicles in the coming weeks to monitor rider misconduct. A rise in vandalism and unruly passenger behavior aboard the Vandy Vans this past fall has led to the heightened safety measures. According to VUPD officials, several incidents were reported in which students rocked the inside of the van almost causing it to tip over. Others were also involved in physical altercations. School officials hope the cameras, which will include audio and infrared technology, will be a successful crime deterrent so ID checks and rider logs won’t have to be implemented in the future.
