Loudermilk Operation Shield Video Integration Center. Photo courtesy: atlantapolicefoundation.org and Reporter Newspapers

Atlanta is hailing its recent investment in its video integration center, saying the monitoring system will improve safety for all residents.

According to a press release, the city has invested more than $350,000 in improving the Closed Circuit Television platform. The integration center links 7,500 publicly and privately-owned cameras. The city says the center increases the Atlanta Police Department’s “coverage and situational awareness” of city streets.

“The new enhancements to the Loudermilk Video Integration Center mark a major step forward for the City of Atlanta, using data-driven technology to improve efficiency as well as to strengthen safety and security of Atlanta’s residents, visitors and businesses,” Mayor Kasim Reed said in a press release. “The upgraded CCTV system and high-definition video wall at the VIC will improve situational awareness for the Atlanta Police Department and first responders during public events and enhance emergency preparedness efforts.”

The city says the upgrades allow the CCTV system to transmit feeds from 128 different camera locations. Information can also be shared with other city facilities.

The system was launched in 2007 as part of “Operation Shield.” The Loudermilk Family donated $1 million to the project in 2012.