New security cameras in downtown Jackson a welcome addition
JANS – A network of police-grade cameras has been strategically placed throughout downtown Jackson to give local law enforcement and Downtown Jackson Partners both recorded access and real-time monitoring of DJP’s business district.
DJP obtained the cameras from Project N.O.L.A., a non-profit organization in New Orleans that operates the largest, most cost-efficient, and successful networked HD camera program in the nation. Via the Internet, these cameras transmit video to the Project N.O.L.A. Real-time Crime Information Center at the University of New Orleans where it can then be re-broadcast to Capital City Police, the Jackson Police Department, and DJP.
“With an influx of new restaurants, businesses, and events coming downtown, like the National Folk Festival, we want to ensure those who invest in our city and the people they attract to downtown have peace of mind and are secure in the knowledge that downtown is a safe, welcoming environment in which to work, live, and play,” said Liz Brister, Downtown Jackson Partners president. “These high-tech cameras lend an extra layer of security to our business district and ease law enforcement’s role in keeping downtown safe.”
Six cameras are currently in operation: two at historic Smith Park, one at the intersection of Capitol and Congress streets, one at the intersection of Lamar and Pearl streets, one at the intersection of Capitol and Roach streets, and one on Commerce Street at Hal and Mal’s restaurant.
“We appreciate Downtown Jackson Parters working with us on public safety solutions,” said Capital Police Chief Bo Luckey. “When police and the community collaborate, those strengthened relationships often result in a reduction in crime and a more confident public, as well as more effective use of resources.”
DJP will continue to add cameras at other downtown Jackson locations. The cameras provide pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities with auto tracking, as well as detection features. They are the same police-grade cameras currently being used throughout the French Quarter in New Orleans and in several Mississippi cities.
