The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) New York City Transit is set to begin a $9.75 million project to equip more than 400 buses with advanced video surveillance equipment. Once approved by the MTA board, system installation will begin early next year.

Video surveillance is viewed as a vital element of the MTA's ongoing effort to maintain a safe and secure transit network for customers and employees, according to an agency statement. The system created by UTC is designed to be a visible crime deterrent, providing a state-of-the-art electronic tool that will aid in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity aboard the vehicle.

The integrated surveillance system will include multiple interior cameras and a digital video recorder (DVR). Nine bus depots will be equipped with equipment capable of capturing video images and performing diagnostic health checks.

System installation for the 400 buses is set to begin during the first quarter of next year and be completed by early 2012.