Lang
8/6/23
The long-promised Ped Mall security cameras will be installed later this month.
Last March, the Iowa City City Council approved the addition of 13 cameras throughout the Ped Mall that would record activity, but not be actively monitored. Footage would only be accessed to look for evidence after a crime is reported.
The underground conduits for the new cameras have already been installed as part of the 2018-19 Pedestrian Mall Improvements Project. The estimated cost for the project is $95,000.
Public Safety Information Officer Lee Hermiston told The Daily Iowan earlier this year that the new cameras will give officers and investigators 360 degree coverage in some areas, which is critical when tracking suspect movement.
Up until now, law enforcement has been relying on security cameras owned by private businesses when looking for footage. The new city-owned cameras will help not only with making arrests, but footage will be used as evidence in trials.
The city has already installed a new light canopy on the Ped Mall to help with clearer video.