January 24, 2008
Transit security cameras integral part of Chicago upgrade
Chicago's legendary "El" Trains are due to receive a $600 million upgrade soon - featuring odor and stain-resistant seats, flat screen monitors with train status upgrades, more seats, and a special system designed to provide smoother rides. One of the most interesting upgrades for Chicago's fleet of 406 new rail cars isn't a creature comfort like the rest of them.
Security cameras will be mounted in every new sweet-smelling car, monitoring riders as they whiz around the Loop. Already part of the CTA bus system for almost 8 years, transit authorities believe that security cameras have played a proven role in reducing crimes on Chicago city buses. In 2007, there were 411 crimes reported on CTA buses, down from almost 600 in 1999.
One of the most innovative new features of the CTA's new transit surveillance system is a "panic button" feature in the train - if passengers feel imperiled or in danger at any time, they can press a panic button located in the car to immediately start a live feed of the car's security cameras. This measure can help transit security officers pinpoint and treat a problem as it occurs, instead of waiting to monitor the footage after the fact.
Two-way microphones in the car can also help clarify communication between riders, operators and security personnel, making communication during an emergency or service interruption clear.
The new cars are scheduled for delivery in 2010 and implementation shortly after. Read more at the Chicago Tribune...
Posted by Jennifer on January 24, 2008 5:17 PM | Comments (0)
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