In a recent budget oversight hearing led by Chairperson Brianne Nadeau, the District of Columbia's Committee on Public Works and Operations unveiled significant plans for modernization and expansion of public safety infrastructure. The meeting, held on June 12, 2025, highlighted a proposed $62 million increase in the DC Net division budget, with a substantial portion earmarked for enhancing public safety camera systems across the city.

The budget increase is primarily driven by a three-pronged approach, with $44 million allocated for the modernization of public safety camera infrastructure. This initiative aims to install approximately 6,000 new cameras in government facilities and high-crime areas, focusing initially on 2,000 cameras in the first phase. The project is a collaborative effort involving various agency partners, including the Department of General Services (DGS) and District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), to ensure comprehensive coverage and improved safety measures.

The new camera systems are designed to be cloud-based and integrated into existing public safety operations, enhancing incident response capabilities and providing real-time data to law enforcement agencies. The initiative is expected to save around $2.1 million by replacing outdated systems and addressing known blind spots in the city.

Additionally, the budget discussion revealed that the DC Net division has successfully onboarded new federal customers, which has contributed to the increased revenue stream. These federal clients utilize the district's internet services, further expanding the network's footprint and ensuring that operational costs are covered through service delivery agreements.

Security measures for the new camera systems were also a focal point of the discussion. The cameras will operate on a secure network owned and maintained by the district, incorporating multiple layers of security to protect footage and data from unauthorized access. This unified approach aims to streamline governance and risk controls, ensuring that security is prioritized from the outset of the project.

As the city moves forward with these ambitious plans, the modernization of public safety infrastructure stands as a testament to the District of Columbia's commitment to enhancing safety and security for its residents. The multi-year rollout of the camera systems, set to continue through 2028, promises to transform the landscape of public safety in the nation’s capital.