Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson recently made a significant investment in public safety initiatives in the borough. She, along with NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey and other city leaders, announced the allocation of $395,000 towards enhancing public safety. This funding, part of the fiscal year 2025 budget, will be used for the installation of new surveillance cameras and the acquisition of a Mobile Command Van to support law enforcement efforts.
During the announcement on the steps of Borough Hall at 851 Grand Concourse, the importance of proactive safety measures was emphasized. The new high-tech surveillance cameras will be strategically placed in areas with high crime rates, while the Mobile Command Van will enable the NYPD to respond quickly to emergencies.
Borough President Gibson expressed her pride in investing in the borough’s public safety efforts, aiming to ensure that every resident feels safe both at home and on the streets. The collaboration with the NYPD is not only focused on crime prevention but also on building trust between law enforcement and communities. In addition to the cameras and command van, funding will also be used for security cameras at selected Bronx schools to enhance safety for students and educators.
NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey emphasized the importance of cameras in deterring crime, noting that a good camera system can help reduce criminal activities. This sentiment was echoed by Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark, who highlighted the importance of addressing gun violence and how the cameras and mobile unit will contribute to making the streets safer for Bronx residents.
The initiative has received widespread support from local leaders, including New York City Council Member Kristy Marmorato and State Assembly Member Landon Dais. They commended Borough President Gibson for her allocation of funds and recognized the need for additional resources to tackle public safety challenges.
As of September 22, there have been 323 victims of gun violence in the Bronx, a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Major crime in the borough is also up by 1.2% compared to the previous year, underscoring the importance of initiatives like the one announced by Borough President Gibson.
In a time where public safety is a growing concern, investments like these play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of Bronx residents. The combination of technology, community involvement, and law enforcement efforts is vital in creating a safer environment for everyone. As the initiative progresses, it is hoped that the allocation of funds will have a positive impact on reducing crime and improving overall safety in the Bronx.