Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller announced Friday the expansion of a security camera grant program to East Downtown and South Broadway, building on what officials say has been a successful pilot program in the downtown area.
The Community Connect Security Camera Grant Program will provide up to $20,000 per property to businesses that install security cameras connected to the Albuquerque Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center, according to a city news release.
“We have seen this program strengthen safety in the Downtown area,” Keller said in the release. “Now we are expanding that success. Partnering with business owners to expand visibility and assist with police response, we’re building safer streets and stronger neighborhoods.”
Applications are now open and will be accepted through Nov. 10. Grants will be awarded competitively until funds are exhausted, with priority given to first-time applicants, according to the release.
Eligible expenses include camera equipment, installation, subscriptions and integration with the Real Time Crime Center.
Neal Greenbaum, owner of Premium Parking and a recipient of the downtown program, praised the initiative in the release.
“The MRA grant will greatly help Premium Parking with improved lighting and cameras,” Greenbaum said. “Between APD’s 24/7 remote access to the cameras and brightly lit parking lots, customers will feel safer and criminal activity will be prevented.”
The program is led by the city’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency in partnership with APD. Beyond public safety, officials say the initiative supports economic development by creating more secure environments for businesses.
“Community Connect empowers business and property owners to be part of the solution,” said Terry Brunner, MRA director, in the release. “As we expand into East Downtown and South Broadway, we’re giving more neighborhoods the tools they need to improve safety, attract investment, and thrive.”
To qualify, applicants must own or lease property in the East Downtown or South Broadway redevelopment areas, operate an active business on-site and be ready to connect to the Real Time Crime Center within six months of receiving an award.
The city will hold a free informational webinar Sept. 18 at noon to walk potential applicants through the program, covering eligibility, application requirements and proposal tips.