SPNA Launches Community-Led CCTV Initiative to Address Safety Concerns

Amid rising public safety concerns in Downtown Los Angeles, the South Park Neighborhood Association (SPNA) has unveiled a bold new initiative to implement a community-driven CCTV (closed circuit television) network aimed at reducing crime, improving neighborhood livability, and strengthening community trust. 

Residents and businesses in South Park and surrounding areas have voiced increasing frustration over ongoing issues such as drug activity, gang violence, theft, vandalism, homelessness, and illegal street racing. With LAPD resources stretched thin--only 3.05 officers per 1,000 residents compared to 4.76 in New York City--residents are looking for alternative solutions to maintain safety. 

One glaring gap is the lack of a city-owned CCTV system in South Park. While cities like New York benefit from more than 18,000 public and private cameras, DTLA has little to no surveillance infrastructure. SPNA’s plan seeks to fill that void through a smart, cloud-based camera system equipped with real-time analytics and community-based reporting. 

SPNA is planning a test program to commence in July 2025. The test will utilize existing external public-facing cameras on residents and businesses that meet certain specifications, including a multi-channel system that will link to a separate SPNA-monitored network. The coverage would include participating residential buildings and businesses between 11th and 12th Streets and between Flower Street and Margot Street (alley east of Grand Ave). 

The main objective is to determine effects on crime by utilizing signage, a shared camera network, and dedicated security personnel between midnight and 6:00 am in the area. Once data is collected, we will evaluate its effectiveness and share its results with the community and appropriate stakeholders to implement a long-term safety solution for the entire neighborhood.  

The funding model is collaborative--local businesses, participating HOAs, and hopefully the Social District and the City will contribute, making the initiative scalable and sustainable. 

SPNA emphasizes transparency, resident engagement, and privacy protections as core values. The project aims to be a national model for equitable, tech-enabled urban safety. Similar initiatives in cities like Detroit and San Francisco have seen dramatic reductions in violent crime and theft, evidence that this community-first approach can deliver real results. SPNA has consulted with various neighborhood groups nationwide regarding their systems and successes.

Local HOAs, businesses, and residents can help create a safer, smarter South Park by joining the pilot or expressing early interest. 

Questions or comments – spnadtla@gmail.com.

By Marty Goldberg