Columbus is advancing its Comprehensive Neighborhood Safety Strategy 2.0 by incorporating cutting-edge public safety sensor technologies to build stronger, safer neighborhoods through transparency and community collaboration. These technologies—such as real-time cameras, noise sensors, and license plate readers—offer the potential to enhance police response and public safety. However, to ensure responsible and equitable deployment, the city aims to develop a data privacy framework and a transparent decision-making process to build public trust, prevent misinformation, and align with best practices from other cities.
Partnering with FUSE Executive Fellow Stephen Kelch, Columbus will create a repeatable, data-driven approach for selecting, siting, and planning public safety sensors. Kelch will engage with stakeholders, benchmark similar programs, and help establish a siting advisory committee to guide decision-making. By integrating multiple data sources into a dynamic dashboard and engaging the public throughout the process, this project will provide Columbus with sustainable tools to effectively deploy sensor technologies while maintaining transparency and community trust.
