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Expensive High-Tech Surveillance Cameras Worth $161,000 Headed to Walnut Creek

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High-tech surveillance cameras worth $161,000 are being installed in Walnut Creek
High-tech surveillance cameras worth $161,000 are being installed in Walnut Creek

Expensive High-Tech Surveillance Cameras Worth $161,000 Headed to Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek Upgrades License Plate Reader System with Flock Safety

The City of Walnut Creek, California, has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its public safety measures. On June 17, 2025, the City Council unanimously approved a two-year subscription with Flock Safety for the replacement of their older license-plate-reading camera system.

The city's decision to upgrade is part of a broader network effect across the Bay Area and California, with Contra Costa County agencies and neighboring cities already using similar systems. The total cost for the two-year subscription, including installation, leasing, and the subscription, is not to exceed $161,600.

The plan includes the installation of over 20 fixed Flock cameras at strategic locations around the city, as well as ALPR units mounted on two existing radar message board trailers. This system upgrade aims for "comprehensive citywide coverage" across business and residential corridors, and the two mobile trailer units can be deployed to hot spots when needed.

Flock's system can read legacy plates, temporary paper tags, and motorcycle plates, which the current system struggles to capture. One of the key features of the new system is the automatic purging of data after 30 days.

The City staff can now proceed with the installation and activation under the two-year agreement, following the Council's consent-calendar approval. However, the City has not published a list of exact sites for the camera installations.

It's worth noting that the City had previously set aside $200,000 in the General Fund for ALPR upgrades. If the program continues beyond two years, staff estimate about $100,000 annually for renewal, subject to future Council approval.

Before the proposal ever reached the Council, it was reviewed by the Camera Systems Oversight Committee. The installation of the ALPR cameras is expected to contribute to the city's ongoing efforts to improve traffic management and public safety.

As the city moves forward with the installation, residents and visitors can expect a more efficient and comprehensive traffic monitoring system in Walnut Creek.

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