The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) New York City Transit (NYCT) is exercising an option for the purchase and installation of bus camera security systems (BCSS) for an additional 1,150 buses.

“Video surveillance is a vital element of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's ongoing effort to maintain a transit network that is as safe and secure as possible,” said NYCT President Thomas F. Prendergast. “Bus cameras offer a visible crime deterrent, while also providing a state-of-the-art electronic tool that will aid in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity aboard the vehicle.”

The original contract for equipping 426 buses was awarded in December 2010 to UTC Fire and Security. The contract also called for hardware and software installations in nine bus depots. The current option will allow similar installations in an additional 12 depots and include three servers. The system captures video images and then uploads them wirelessly to the depot server along with a system health report while the bus is being fueled.

The integrated surveillance system includes multiple cameras covering the interiors of standard 40-foot buses and 60-foot articulated buses. The depots are equipped with equipment capable of not only capturing the video images but also performing diagnostic health checks on the system.