Title
Authorization to Amend Ordinance for Downtown Camera Project (Ordinance S-48867)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to amend the current Ordinance (S-48123) to replace and redesign the security camera system in the City's downtown core. Authorization of the amendment will add the total cost of the project of $1.6 million to the Ordinance that was approved by City Council at the Dec. 1, 2021 meeting. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
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 for Phase I (approved Dec.1, 2021) 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).
The proposed project for Phase II includes:
- Cabling for 10 rooftop sites (approximate cost $250,000).
- Installation of 49 rooftop cameras (approximate cost $90,000).
- Purchase 40 street-level cameras (approximate cost $160,000).
- Purchase cellular backhaul solutions (approximate cost $500,000).
Once Phase II 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 first phase of this project (approved Dec.1, 2021) is $600,000 and phase II is $1,000,000. The total 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
Phase I funding as well as the conceptual approval of the entire project was approved by City Council at the Dec. 1, 2021 meeting.
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.