Solution

Smart Light Poles

Next-generation light poles equipped with advanced technology from private sector partners can give law enforcement agencies a powerful new tool for enhancing emergency response, crowd management, and crime scene handling, improving the overall safety and quality of life in Los Angeles.

World-class technology partners

BLS is working with top technology companies to develop an advanced smart pole infrastructure in Los Angeles.

These include:

for digital resilience, AI-ready data centers, cybersecurity, and future-proofed workspaces

for intelligent traffic solutions

for end-to-end V2X solutions

for smart pole design, wired and wireless communications, planning, and deployment

for geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping

for intelligent roadway and traffic solutions

for high-resolution LiDAR sensors, perception software and solutions

Meraki MR86 Wi-Fi AP

2x IW-ANT-PNL5615-NS Backhaul Antenna

IOT Switch: IE-3300

IOT Router: IR1 101-K9

AC Power Distribution

Fiber Demacation

Ouster Catalyst GPU Edge Computer

IW9167EH CURWB Backhaul Radio

Meraki MV93X Fisheye Camera

Meraki MV52 Bullet Camera

Ouster OS0 and OS2 Lidar Sensor

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Public Wi-Fi

to enhance digital equity, tourism, and remote working

CCTV

for video surveillance and incident scene management

LiDAR technology

using lasers and 3D imaging to detect objects (weapons & license plates)

Edge compute

to make split-second decisions using computers closest to video, LiDAR, or sensors

Ultra-reliable wireless backhaul

for fast data connection from pole to city network

V2X (Cellular & Wi-Fi)

for fast communications between vehicle and infrastructure, enhancing safety

High bandwidth fiber connectivity

for super-fast communications to city network

5G cellular

for low-bandwidth cellular backhaul connectivity to city network

Cisco Connected Community Infrastructure

to optimize network and cloud performance and to provide connectivity of fiber and ethernet services for pole devices

Anatomy of a Smart Light Pole

Roll-over each element in the pole to see a description.

Smart Light Poles in action

Click on the markers on the map to see the different functionalities

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“Living Room” (near arena)
LiDAR and video monitors crowd and detects unusual behavior or presence of weapons

Traffic signal preemption
Allows for fast emergency response

Abandoned object detection
LiDAR on pole detects potential suspicious objects for investigation

Licensed plate readers
Pole sensors can identify suspect vehicles to improve law enforcement response

Opportunity

Transforming public safety with technology

In an era where urban safety and efficiency are paramount, the Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting (BSL) is transforming their single-function street light poles to a multifunction platform leveraging sensors, computer vision, and advanced communication to digitally transform public safety.

Pilot program

To demonstrate the real-world operation and benefits of a smart pole infrastructure, BLS is conducting a pilot program that will install or retrofit a network of poles in selected downtown Los Angeles neighborhoods (adjacent to Crypto.com arena).

Currently in planning and design, including initial feasibility/planning sessions with LAPD and other agencies

Targeting [approx. launch date]

Other specifics we want to mention?

Supporting LAPD’s strategic plan

By harnessing modern technology, this initiative can advance LAPD’s strategic plan to enhance operational efficiency and protect residents, setting a new standard in public safety, agency collaboration, efficiency, and emergency response. Key components of LAPD’s plan include:

Implementing proactive measures to decrease crime rates and enhance the overall safety of neighborhoods

Enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of police operations through continuous improvement and innovation

Leveraging modern technologies and data analytics to inform decision-making and improve policing strategies

Next steps

LAPD and other agencies are encouraged to collaborate with BSL and Cisco to leverage existing pilot to test how technologies housed in smart poles can advance public safety.

Click here for more information

Crowd management during mega events

Using real-time data analytics and surveillance enabled by smart pole technology, law enforcement can more effectively manage large crowds during major events. By ensuring public safety and maintaining order, this capability prevents incidents before they occur, enhancing trust and event security.

Smart poles in action

Emergency vehicle preemption

High-tech smart poles can integrate with the city’s traffic signal network to prioritize emergency vehicles, allowing them to navigate congested streets more efficiently. This can significantly reduce response times and potentially saves lives in critical situations, contributing to more effective emergency interventions.

Incident scene management

Smart poles enhance the management of accident and crime scenes by providing high-resolution imaging capabilities for accurate documentation and efficient evidence collection. This leads to quicker and more effective investigations, ensuring swift justice and community reassurance.

Object imaging and surveillance

With advanced imaging technologies, smart poles can support weapons and gunshot detection, license plate recognition, and continuous surveillance. The system’s ability to upload bodycam video files during staff breaks can provide law enforcement with comprehensive situational awareness and immediate access to crucial data, deterring criminal activity and strengthening public safety.

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Next-Generation Light Pole Initiative

Advancing Public Safety in Los Angeles