The City of Owen Sound hopes to improve safety by installing surveillance cameras.
Operational cameras have now been installed in the River District.
Earlier this year, Owen Sound council approved a three-year camera pilot program for that region, which would include installing 17 cameras over two phases.
Phase Two is set to be implemented in 2025.
For police, video surveillance offers a crucial investigative tool after a crime by helping to identify suspects or reconstruct events.
The cameras are expected to help protect facilities, equipment, and assets. The program also aims to help improve the City's reputation, and potentially boost tourism and business activity in the River District, according to a media release.
"Safety and well-being of our community is always going to be a City priority. Installing these cameras is about more than just security — it's about giving our residents and visitors peace of mind, knowing we're working to create a safer, more welcoming place for everyone, and supporting our City's growth and prosperity, especially in the River District," the media release said.
The three-year pilot program cost will be approximately $90,000,
The camera pilot program is funded entirely by the Community Policing Reserve and Cannabis Reserve Funds.
The cameras installed as part of Phase One of this project are located at:
8th St E and 2nd Ave E
8th St E and 3rd Ave E
9th St E and 2nd Ave E
9th St E and 3rd Ave E
10th St E and 2nd Ave E
10th St E and 3rd Ave E
9th St W and 2nd Ave W
10th St W and 2nd Ave W
Cameras are installed on top of existing streetlights, with data storage and transmission infrastructure being cloud-based.
Cameras used for this project were purchased through Liveable Cities, which is the city reported is a Canadian-owned and operated clean technology company.