Aspinwall adds new security cameras in its parks

New cameras have been installed in Aspinwall parks to boost security.

Borough Manager Melissa Lang O’Malley said the borough spent a little more than $6,000 on nine cameras from Security Systems of America.

Three were placed at Firemen’s Memorial Park, three at the Recreation Area ballfields and three at its playgrounds.

“We started the process in February,” O’Malley said via email May 12. “The cameras were purchased for the borough to monitor the parks. We have had vandalism in the parks in the past which has prevented us leaving the bathrooms open in the playground.”

The cameras went live earlier this month.

Police Chief Dave Nemec said officers can access feeds from the new cameras on their phones and computers in real time.

The previous camera system required officers to review recorded footage at the police station, the chief said.

“It’s more to help us out because we can’t be down there all the time,” Nemec said. “We’ve been talking about getting cameras down there. It’s just to monitor things in case anything does happen.”

One goal of the added security measure is to help prevent vandalism of the “Love, Aspinwall” mural that was revealed Nov. 12 at the Field Avenue playground pavilion.

A core group of 16 volunteers, under the direction of artist and resident Alison Zapata, along with numerous helpers, put paint to masonry every weekend starting early September.

Nemec said no vandalism at the mural has been reported since its unveiling.

Anyone who sees suspicious activity in the parks can contact borough police at 412-781-3568.