City plans to deploy five license plate readers and a mobile unit for traffic monitoring

During the recent Clute City Council Budget Workshop, discussions centered on the implementation of a new license plate reader (LPR) system aimed at enhancing public safety and addressing community concerns. The proposed system includes five fixed license plate readers strategically placed at major traffic areas and one mobile unit that can be deployed as needed, particularly in high-traffic locations like parking lots.

City officials expressed optimism about securing a grant from the state to fund this initiative, with plans for a presentation that could bolster their chances of receiving financial support. The estimated cost for each fixed unit is around $28,000, which includes both the hardware and necessary software. The software will allow for future expansion, enabling the city to add more readers if the initial deployment proves successful.

One of the key motivations behind this project is to reduce crime and improve safety in areas that have seen a high volume of service calls. For instance, one local motel has recorded 173 service calls, prompting the council to consider placing a reader in that vicinity to deter undesirable activity and encourage better business practices.

The LPR system is designed to be user-friendly and collaborative, allowing Clute to share information with neighboring cities like Lake Jackson, which already utilizes a similar system. This cooperation could enhance the effectiveness of the program and provide valuable data to improve community safety.

As the city moves forward with this initiative, residents can expect updates on the grant application process and the potential rollout of the license plate reader system, which aims to foster a safer environment for all.