Belville, a town in Brunswick County, has implemented a technological solution to enhance safety at one of its parks. Along the Belville Riverwalk Trail, wooden poles with cameras and other equipment have been installed to monitor the area. These cameras were strategically placed in collaboration with a non-profit organization to help prevent crime on the trail, according to Town Manager Athina Williams.
The primary goal of installing these cameras was to provide a sense of safety and security for residents who use the park, especially those who visit early in the morning to exercise. With over a dozen cameras along the Riverwalk trail, only authorized personnel from the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and the Town of Belville are allowed to access and monitor the camera feeds.
Residents like Gail MacDonald appreciate the presence of cameras for safety reasons but also notes that they can capture positive moments such as grandparents spending time with their kids. The cameras serve multiple purposes including observing severe weather conditions that may affect the park and monitoring the area for medical emergencies. Once the Riverwalk’s expansion project is completed in June 2025, additional cameras will be installed to further enhance safety and security measures in the park.
Belville’s decision to install surveillance cameras along its riverwalk trail is part of a growing trend among towns across North Carolina. According to Williams, “We wanted to make sure our residents feel safe when they visit our parks.” The town worked closely with local law enforcement agencies and non-profits organizations to ensure that these technologies would be effective without infringing on individual privacy rights.
The installation of these technological solutions has already had an impact on crime rates along the riverwalk trail. Since their installation, there have been no reports of theft or violence in this area.
In conclusion, Belville’s implementation of surveillance cameras along its riverwalk trail represents an important step towards enhancing public safety in this community. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect more towns across North Carolina and beyond to follow suit and implement similar solutions in their own communities.
