Cubs To Pay $1M For Additional Security Cams Around Wrigley Field
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A city council committee voted to accept money from the Chicago Cubs organization to put more security cameras around Wrigley Field.
The Cubs are providing $1 million to expand the city's extensive Operation Virtual Shield (OVS) network of cameras near the ballpark. As part of this expansion, approximately 30 new cameras will be installed on city-owned light poles near the North Side field.
Chicago police said, "The additional cameras will serve to enhance the safety and security of the venue and allow Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) to monitor the high traffic areas in communities adjacent to the ballpark."
The expansion will also increase OEMC's ability to view additional areas of the city during an emergency indictment. Budget Committee Chair Ald. Carrie Austin said OEMC will be responsible for determining the locations of the cameras, which are needed, she says.
"It's a precaution, because of so many bombings and things going on around the world," she said. "For me, it's a precaution. I'm glad to see it happen."
This news comes one day after a suicide bomb attack on an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England killed at least 22 people and wounded 59.
A budget committee approved the grant, among several others from various state, federal and other sources for a number of efforts encompassing health, anti-violence and consumer protection.