SEPTA is adding new technology to its system. Subway cars on the Market-Frankford line will be equipped with security cameras by next year.
The project is costing $3.3 million and is meant to deter crime aboard subways. While improving passengers’ safety is important, SEPTA could better use its resources to improve security.
When SEPTA increased police presence a few years ago, it contributed to a significant decrease in assaults and robberies. The police officers’ presence is noticeable and serves as a warning to potential criminals.
Instead of spending millions on cameras, SEPTA should have used the money to hire additional law enforcement. Increasing the law-enforcement force has a proven track record of working. Plus, the cameras are not as apparent as extra bodies and, as a result, may not be as effective as personnel at preventing and reducing incidents.
SEPTA provides a valuable service to residents of the greater Philadelphia area — especially for students looking for options more affordable than taxis. The fact that safety concerns sometimes prevent people from taking the subway is a problem. However, some ways of improving security may make more of a difference than others. SEPTA should make more of an impact.
