Tennessee City Reviews New Security Measures to Protect Citizens

The City of Kingston is reviewing security measures such as security cameras, locks and bulletproof glass to protect city buildings.

• By Sydny Shepard
• Apr 09, 2019

The City of Kingston, Tenn. is reviewing security upgrades, including security cameras, locks and bulletproof barriers that would be used to protect city buildings, parks, and other facilities.

Kingston Police Officer Adam Alkishawi told Roane County News that the proposal would include 124 new cameras and was estimated to cost about $40,000. 

"We want to provide better security for the city," Alkishawi said.

The cameras at important facilities and locations will be accessible to all officers via their smartphones or tablets and can provide better protection and aid in investigations of accidents and crimes. For example, last year a woman died when her car ended up in a body of water. The cameras could have helped get first responders to the scene earlier as well as clear up exactly how the car ended up there, said Alkishawi. 

The city has some cameras providing officers with eyes all over the city currently, but the equipment is not up to date. New cameras will have better clarity, infrared night vision and will be accessible through a network that will allow officers to view the scene. 

"The officers can see what's happening before they get there," said Kingston City Manager David Bolling.

The new cameras will cover city buildings, such as the community center, visitor center and several fire stations and facilities as well as the Kingston Public Library and the dog park.

The plan also includes additional locks at city hall, fencing at areas such as the city garage and water treatment plant, ballistic gland at the Water Department and Police Department and use of ballistic panels in areas such as the Kingston City Council chambers.