CCTV for Public Spaces

In accordance with the University's Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Monitoring Policy, the Division of Public Safety is providing Phase One locations of exterior cameras. The CCTV Monitoring Committee has approved the following locations:

  • 40th & Locust
  • 40th & Walnut
  • 40th & Spruce
  • 39th & Walnut
  • 38th & Walnut
  • 38th & Spruce
  • 39th & Spruce
  • Lot #15 (between 38th & 39th, Locust & Walnut Sts.)

As additional phases of the project are scheduled, new locations will be published in Almanac.

These cameras will be used by DPS to monitor public areas for public safety purposes. The field of view of the cameras is approximately one (1) city block in all directions. There are specific guidelines for the use of the cameras. The operators of the cameras are located in Public Safety Headquarters, 4040 Chestnut Street and are under the direction of the Penn Police Department. These personnel are specially trained and closely supervised.

It is important to know that, while there will be a number of cameras placed at strategic locations around campus, all cameras will not be monitored at all times. However, all cameras will be recorded 24 hours per day. In addition to observations for safety and security purposes, the cameras will be utilized for alarm verification and in conjunction with other security devices, including the blue light emergency telephone system.

As provided in the Policy, the Committee and the Vice President for Public Safety must approve the release of any information not related to a criminal investigation. Videotapes and/or digital information not retained under specific provisions of the CCTV Monitoring Policy will be regularly purged and destroyed after 30 days. Storage and access to all information is closely secured with access strictly limited and controlled. The Committee is authorized to review CCTV procedures and inspect the CCTV operation at any time.

Questions in reference to the CCTV system or policy may be addressed to Thomas Seamon, Vice President for Public Safety or Stratis Skoufalos, Director of Security Services.

The full CCTV Monitoring Policy can be found in Almanac April 13, 1999, or on the web at www.upenn.edu/almanac/v45/n28/CCTV.html


Almanac, Vol. 46, No. 1, July 13, 1999

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