The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Area (DWBIA) is launching a new initiative to enhance safety for local businesses through the Project Greenlight surveillance program. Residents can expect to see more blinking green beacons across downtown, accompanied by an AI-powered voice that may ask individuals to move along, as security cameras are installed on downtown businesses in the coming weeks.
Project Greenlight officially commenced on Monday, with commercial-grade surveillance cameras featuring real-time monitoring and security lighting being installed on up to 90 businesses within the DWBIA. The city has allocated $50,000 to help cover the operating costs of one camera per business for up to one year, announced Ward 3 Coun. Renaldo Agostino during a press conference.
City Funding and Partnership
City council approved $450,000 for the program last February as part of the Strengthen the Core downtown revitalization master plan. The initiative is a public-private partnership with Security One, which will monitor the video feeds. Agostino expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that increased business participation will enhance downtown protection. He emphasized that the presence of cameras will deter criminal activity by making individuals aware that they are being watched.
AI-Powered Voice Capabilities
The cameras are equipped with an AI-powered voice that can identify and address suspicious behavior in real time. Dustin Vermast, senior security consultant with Security One, explained that these cameras go beyond traditional CCTV systems, which merely record incidents. The AI and virtual guard capabilities allow the system to stop loitering, vandalism, and trespassing as they occur, marking a significant improvement over standard surveillance.
During a demonstration, a camera confronted an unsuspecting reporter with a firm voice, warning them to move or face police involvement. Vermast noted that the DWBIA selected an assertive voice setting, but businesses can choose from various options, including more gentle tones.
Business Participation and Costs
The DWBIA will cover the monthly operating fee of $40 for one camera per business for up to one year. Businesses that install additional cameras must cover the extra costs themselves. Currently, 21 businesses have been approved for camera installation, with more applications pending. Agostino highlighted that the program's success will be measured by its impact on crime data.
Project Greenlight represents a collaborative effort to improve safety in downtown Windsor, leveraging advanced technology to deter criminal activity and provide peace of mind for business owners and residents alike.
