Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, alongside NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey and other city leaders, announced on Monday the allocation of $395,000 to enhance public safety across the borough. The funds, part of the fiscal year 2025 budget, will go toward the installation of new surveillance cameras and the acquisition of a Mobile Command Van to support law enforcement efforts.
The announcement, held on the steps of Borough Hall at 851 Grand Concourse, emphasized the importance of proactive safety measures. The new high-tech surveillance cameras will be placed strategically in areas with elevated crime rates, while the Mobile Command Van will enable the NYPD to respond swiftly to emergencies.
“I am proud to invest $395,000 in our borough’s public safety efforts,” Gibson said. “This funding will help ensure that every resident feels safe in their home and on our streets. Our collaboration with the NYPD will not only help in crime prevention but also in building trust between law enforcement and our communities.”
Gibson stressed the importance of addressing public safety through a combination of technology and community involvement. In addition to the cameras and command van, she announced funding for security cameras at select Bronx schools to enhance safety for students and educators.
NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey highlighted the role of cameras in deterring crime. “A good camera system can assist in driving crime down. Somebody will not commit a crime if they look up and see a camera,” he said, praising the Borough President for her investment in public safety.
The initiative has garnered widespread support from local leaders, including Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark, who pointed to the need to address gun violence. “These cameras and the mobile unit will assist greatly in making our streets safe. The people of the Bronx deserve nothing less.”
For the year through Sept.22, there have been 323 victims of gun violence in the borough, up 7% compared to the same period in 2023. Major crime is up 1.2% in the borough compared to 2023.
New York City Council Member Kristy Marmorato and State Assembly Member Landon Dais also praised Gibson’s allocation of funds, noting the need for additional resources to address public safety challenges.
