More Security Cameras Planned for MRH Schools

The number of security cameras in the Maplewood Richmond Heights high and middle school building will increase soon.

About 50 cameras and an upgraded computer system will be added to the 26 cameras currently in the building.

The was awarded a Secure Our Schools grant to expand the camera presence on campus. The city and school district will pitch in $26,500 each, while the federal government picks up the remaining $53,000.

The new system will increase safety in the schools, said Sgt. Michael Martin, who wrote the grant application. If something like a gun scare happens on campus, the police will be better prepared to respond to the situation.

That's because police officers can access live footage from their patrol cars. It's similar to the for downtown Maplewood.

The fourth floor currently lacks a camera presence, while the third floor only has a few. The new system will fill gaps in coverage areas, Martin said.

Two 360-degrees cameras with zooming capabilities will be placed in the gym. The increases presence should help officers when Maplewood hosts basketball tournaments and other events, Martin said.

Maplewood was one of five cities in Missouri to be awarded the grant, and the only one in the St. Louis area.

The cameras are expected to be installed in March.