Expanding surveillance network in Fort Worth aims to protect communities and reduce crime

Fort Worth, Texas – The City of Fort Worth is reinforcing its commitment to public safety with the expansion of its Citywide Camera Project. This initiative, which has already deployed over 1,200 safety and security cameras, is aimed at reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and improving emergency response times.

Enhancing Law Enforcement Capabilities

At the core of this project is the Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC), where law enforcement officials monitor footage from strategically placed cameras in real time. These cameras, including pan-tilt-zoom models with powerful zoom features and license plate readers with Flock technology, help officers track incidents and respond more efficiently. By using advanced surveillance tools, Fort Worth law enforcement can gather crucial data to aid in investigations and improve public safety outcomes.

What sets this initiative apart is the city’s in-house camera workshop, where a team led by a retired police officer-turned-technician builds and maintains security cameras at a significantly lower cost. In 2024 alone, this team built 223 cameras, saving the city over $1.5 million. Additionally, they completed more than 1,600 deployments, extractions, and repairs, ensuring the system remains fully operational and cost-effective.

Strategic Camera Placement for Maximum Impact

The locations for camera installations are carefully selected based on public safety needs. Each week, the Fort Worth Police Department analyzes crime trends to determine areas requiring additional surveillance. The priority is given to high-crime zones, helping law enforcement monitor and prevent violent offenses.

Cameras are also positioned in high-traffic areas such as the Stockyards, West Seventh Street, and Will Rogers Memorial Center, ensuring security during large events and gatherings. The project also funds mobile safety and security trailers, which allow for temporary camera installations at locations experiencing increased criminal activity or requiring extra monitoring during special events.

Looking Ahead to Expanded Safety Measures

As Fort Worth continues investing in the Citywide Camera Project, plans for 2025 include the construction of 150 to 200 new cameras. These additions will replace aging equipment and expand surveillance coverage to improve community safety further. By combining innovation, cost-saving measures, and strategic crime prevention, Fort Worth is setting a new standard for municipal public safety efforts.