After what they called a “violent” spring in 2022, city officials in Columbus, Ohio, took steps toward ensuring a safe, more peaceful summer. First, they beefed up the number of officers patrolling the parks. They followed that with a $500,000 contract for 25 portable surveillance and lighting systems at some of the parks.

While no solution is perfect, this two-fold plan proved successful enough to extend the lighting contract for a second year.

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and Columbus Department of Public Safety agreed that during the pandemic, there was an increase in violence across the country, and Columbus experienced the same trends.

While the city’s parks are places of joy and a place to seek respite, there were a few isolated, high-profile incidents in parks, both departments admitted. While the parks are relatively safe, adding an extra layer of security is a way to deter those who may be considering engaging in illegal activities in the parks and give residents an extra sense of security when they visit.

A CDPS representative said the department is currently renting portable camera trailers from Street Smart Rentals LLC. The first contract ran from May 25, 2022, through May 31, 2023, and was authorized by ordinance 1504-2022 for $500,000 and covered the rental of 20 units at $1,300 each per rolling 28-day rental period. The second and current contract runs from May 30, 2023, through May 31, 2024, and was authorized by ordinance 1352-2023. It is for $550,000 and covers the rental of 25 units at $1,250 per month each for a 12-month rental period and seven solar light towers at $1,300 per month each for a 12-month rental period.

Much thought went into the decision as to providers. According to a statement from CDPS, “The contract was awarded to Street Smart after an informal evaluation determined that they were the only provider capable of deploying the equipment to meet the time constraints. This evaluation process included soliciting quotes from 3 vendors, of which Street Smart was the lowest cost. The ordinances noted above authorized the waiver of competitive bidding requirements.”

As expected, was a considerable investment in the city. But how was it funded? The statement elaborated: “Both contracts were funded by the General Fund budget. And the department plans to purchase portable camera trailers, rather than continuing to rent them, as purchasing will be more cost-effective.”

The department issued RFQ026042 in 2023 and received four bids. The contract was awarded to LRG Technologies LLC, dba Mobile Pro Systems. It was a Universal Term Contract authorized by ordinance 0181-2024. The department plans to purchase up to 20 units, and the purchase will likely take place later this year. In the meantime, they plan to renew the rental contract for a partial year to ensure coverage until the purchased trailers can be delivered. The purchase of the trailers will be capital-funded.

Concurrently with the contracts, the Columbus Division of Police took steps to increase its presence in parks. In addition to increasing the presence of uniformed officers in cruisers, bike patrol officers became present because when officers are on bikes, research has shown that they are more approachable. It’s also easier for police to interact with residents, strengthening relationships between law enforcement and residents.

In addition to officers being on site, the efforts prevented crime by increasing the perception that those who engage in illegal activity in parks would be caught. Thus, it was important to promote the effort broadly. Messaging focused on CDP having eyes and ears in parks and pointed out the fact that, while residents may not see officers, they are there. This reassured residents, deterred crime and increased the perception that, if a person decided to engage in criminal activity in a park, there was a strong likelihood he or she would be caught. Several press releases, media pitches and press conferences promoted the Parks Patrol, resulting in widespread coverage.

CDP also promoted the safety of parks through a PSA that featured interviews with CDP officers, department staff and community members who regularly visit Columbus parks. It reiterated that parks are safely enjoyed by many and that police are actively patrolling parks. The PSA was pushed out through CDP and CRPD social media channels.

The results have been positive, according to the CDP. The parks remain safe, and officers have noticed a good general cross-section who felt comfortable enough to return to the parks: young families with children, seniors and others who hadn’t been coming out but have now started to do so again.

A CRPD representative noted that “In Columbus, the Columbus Division of Police is responsible for safety in our parks. It has been critical for public safety and Columbus Recreation and Parks to work together closely to respond to this issue and adjust strategies based on trends. There is a strong relationship between the departments, which makes this effective.”

The manner in which cameras were deployed was particularly effective. The location of the cameras was not publicized, and they are mobile and can be moved based on the assessments of crime trends and needs in consultation between Columbus Police and Columbus Recreation and Parks. It is hoped that would-be assailants will assume every park has surveillance equipment. Spring is here again, and Columbus wants everyone to be safe and able to enjoy the beautiful city parks.

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