Imagine a future where public transit is not just a means of getting from A to B, but a safer, more secure environment for all. This vision is becoming a reality in Edmonton, thanks to an innovative pilot project that could revolutionize the way we approach transit safety.
The Problem: Rising Transit Violence
Statistics Canada has revealed a disturbing trend: from 2016 to 2024, reported assaults on transit systems doubled in eight of Canada's largest cities. Edmonton, despite seeing a drop in transit-related crime rates, still topped the list in 2024 with 45.12 crimes per 100,000 people.
A Technological Solution: 3D Mapping
Enter the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and their partnership with Esri Canada. Together, they've developed the Edmonton Transit Enhanced Community Safety System (ETECS), a cutting-edge safety system that combines various technologies.
Norman Mendoza, director of EPS' applications services branch, describes it as something straight out of a movie, adding, "We're just scratching the surface of what's possible."
The system works by creating a 3D digital twin of underground LRT stations, like Churchill Station, and its surrounding areas. This digital twin is then layered with mapping software and an indoor positioning system, resulting in a searchable, trackable map of the underground space.
Tracking for Safety
EPS officers can be tracked using an app on their phones, providing real-time location data. For other transit users, the system uses Wi-Fi to locate their cell phones, ensuring everyone's safety.
Mendoza emphasizes the importance of this 3D view, stating, "Being able to understand the entire space is crucial for police operations, especially when public or officer safety is at stake."
Beyond Tracking: Proactive Planning
The 3D map also aids EPS in proactive emergency planning and large event management. Combined with camera feeds and motion sensors, the system can identify hotspots, alerting authorities to areas where people might be congregating for longer periods, thus requiring additional security or police presence.
Joann Fox, Esri Canada's director of public safety, explains, "If we see officers spending a lot of time in a certain area with higher crime rates, we can now plan better because we have the data."
A Promising Future
The pilot project has ended, and now EPS and the City of Edmonton must decide on the future of ETECS. Mendoza believes the pilot was a success, but the challenge lies in allocating resources to move the project forward.
Esri Canada's Fox sees a bright future for this technology beyond transit safety, mentioning potential applications for emergency responders and public spaces like universities and shopping centers.
"Edmonton has become a leader for the rest of the country," Fox said. "We're getting inquiries about how this technology is working."
So, what do you think? Could this be the solution to making public transit safer? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
