Title
(CONTINUED FROM NOV. 17, 2021) - Downtown Camera Project (Ordinance S-48123)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to replace and redesign the security camera system in the City’s downtown core. These cameras are critical to the City’s overall security posture, protect the City’s critical infrastructure, and support the public’s safety and security during large-scale events in the downtown core. As the City of Phoenix prepares for the upcoming Super Bowl in February 2023, existing cameras continue to fail and have exceeded end of life and must be replaced. The downtown camera project is scalable and will be implemented in phases. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item. The first phase is expected to cost approximately $600,000, while the entire project is expected to cost approximately $1.6 million to complete.
Report
Summary
Between 2008-2012, the Phoenix Police Department's Homeland Defense Bureau’s Threat Mitigation Unit utilized grant funding to begin incrementally building a downtown camera capability within the City’s downtown core complex (defined as Jackson Street to the I-10 Freeway, 7th Avenue to 7th Street). Over time, the Homeland Security Grant Program funding was reduced and remains a highly competitive process. The Department of Justice/Federal Emergency Management Agency has also placed an increased emphasis on ensuring a regional benefit of all projects funded. This change in guidance no longer makes it possible for the City of Phoenix to utilize Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) funding to sustain and grow the downtown camera system.
Of the original 60 cameras installed only about 25 remain in varying states of operational condition. As the City of Phoenix prepares for the upcoming Super Bowl and multiple high-profile activities that will take place in the downtown core, access to a comprehensive camera network is critical to effectively manage public safety and the preservation of our City’s critical infrastructure.
The proposed project includes:
- The replacement of approximately 33 Homeland Defense Bureau cameras (approximate cost $200,000).
- Installation of 15 cameras in the downtown core on a wireless transmission system (approximate cost $200,000).
- Adding necessary IT infrastructure, servers and storage (approximate cost $200,000).
Once funding is approved, the Homeland Defense Bureau’s Threat Mitigation Unit will partner with Public Works and Information Technology Services (ITS) for specific quotes and development of a deployment and installation plan. ITS is aware of this project; however, there is no current impact until the purchasing phase for the requested equipment.
Procurement Information
The items required for this project will be purchased utilizing existing City of Phoenix contract vendors. No competitive process will be required however, amendments to increase contract spending limits may be required in the future with dates to be determined.
Financial Impact
The initial cost of this project is $600,000.The total project projected investment costs are estimated to be $1.6 million to complete. Funds are available in the Phoenix Police Department's budget.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
This item was recommended for City Council approval by the Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee on Nov. 10, 2021 by a vote of 3-1.
Location
Downtown core, Jackson Street to the I-10 Freeway, 7th Avenue to 7th Street.
Council Districts: 7 and 8
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Lori Bays and the Police Department.