Seattle security camera network raises concerns about privacy
Feb 21, 2013, 11:07 AM | Updated: 11:31 am
A set of four cameras in downtown Seattle positioned to monitor the Columbia Center were acquired by a federal grant after the center was identified as a potential terrorist target after 9/11. (Image courtesy City of Seattle)
(Image courtesy City of Seattle)
There was a lot of passionate testimony to the Seattle City Council about a wireless camera network being installed around the city.
KING 5 reports a network of 34 cameras along the Seattle waterfront, in downtown Seattle, and at the Ballard and Fremont bridges, could be ready for operation late next month, but residents are mixed on whether safety or privacy concerns should win out.
Residents voiced concerns about cameras peering into their residences.
The city council and Seattle police tried to reassure residents that the cameras would be programmed to electronically block out homes and offices. The city has provided a video example of the masking technology.
The cameras will be used by several city agencies including the Seattle Police Department, Fire Department and the Seattle Department of Transportation.
Regulations for the system are still being worked out, and the program would still need an OK from the mayor, before the cameras could be turned on.
KIRO Radio Reporter Kim Shepard contributed to this report.
