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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

CALERA – The city of Calera announced the successful implementation of a new camera system designed to improve emergency response times and enhance public safety.

After hearing concerns from the fire department about delays caused by trains blocking railroad crossings, Calera’s IT Department began working to create a solution which arrived in the form of a new camera system. The series of cameras integrates with the city’s existing security system and covers four major railroad crossings in the city.

The final piece of the system was the addition of a camera at Sysco on Highway 22 which powered by solar panels and utilizes cellular signals to transmit live footage to first responders.

“Sysco was gracious in allowing us to mount the pole and camera system on their property to get the best view of the crossing,” read an official press release from the city of Calera. “Partnerships with our local businesses and citizens make advancements like this possible.”

With the new system in place, the fire department can check to see if a crossing is blocked during an emergency situation remotely and adjust their route if necessary instead of expending precious time to check in person.

“Railroad traffic is very busy in Calera and often causes delayed response times for our fire apparatus,” Fire Chief Sean Kendrick said. “The ability to see Hwy 22 and other crossings before leaving the station allows our firefighters to take alternate routes or dispatch other units. We are thankful for our IT department and Sysco for making this project happen.”

The new system is also integrated with the iPads located in the fire trucks allowing firemen to view live feeds with officers on the scene to help with decision-making process. The Calera Police Department and dispatch center now also have access to the live feeds.

“Knowing when the crossings are blocked can save potentially live saving seconds when responding to emergencies,” Calera Chief of Police David Hyche said.

The city’s new camera tool has also been made available to the public through the MyCalera app which will allow residents to also check on the status of railroad crossings.

“These cameras that we have installed at several major intersections and railroad tracks will allow you to log on to a website and view If a train is stopped in that area,” Mayor Jon Graham said. “Then you can see it and plan your commute around that area.”

Currently, the camera feed on the MyCalera app allows residents to track the status with live feeds of the following railroad crossings:

• The CSX crossing on Highway 22 at Sysco
• The CSX crossing on Highway 25 at the Calera Police Department
• The CSX crossing at 17th Avenue
• The CSX crossing at 20th Avenue

“Who would imagine a small camera, with solar battery backup mounted on a telephone call would (be) such a blessing to the people of Calera,” Graham said. “As public servants elected by the people for our communities, I think we must continue to try to make the lives of our people better every day and in Calera that is what my staff and I are committed to do.”

Apple users may access the MyCalera app through the following link.

Android users may access the MyCalera app through the following link.