The Controlling Board, a bipartisan panel of state lawmakers, approved $235,000 for a Homeland Security project that links cameras throughout Oho.
Ohio's Camera Integration Project to link and monitor thousands of security cameras in Ohio is underway. The project will be modeled after one that has operated in Alabama since 2006. Alabama's system, called Virtual Alabama, came together in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Thousands of cameras that monitor roads, schools and private businesses will be used in an effort to provide more eyes for first responders in emergencies.
Ohio's Camera Integration Project will be accessible by police, firefighters and other 'authorized officials.' The integration will include government-operated systems watching highways, public buildings and airports, and the private security cameras at businesses, shopping malls, office complexes and other major facilities. Privately help companies will not be required to join.
Video from the cameras will not be continually monitored, recorded or stored rather they will be used as a resource during emergencies.
