Belville, a town in Brunswick County, has taken measures to ensure the safety of its residents by installing technology for surveillance along the Belville Riverwalk Trail. The town collaborated with a non-profit organization to place cameras on wooden poles throughout the trail, which helps prevent crimes from occurring.
Athina Williams, the town manager, stated that safety and security are top priorities for residents, especially since many young women use the trail early in the morning for exercise. There are over a dozen cameras located throughout the Riverwalk trail, with feeds accessible only to members of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and Town of Belville staff.
Residents like Gail MacDonald appreciate the added safety measures but also see potential benefits beyond just security. MacDonald mentioned that the cameras could capture positive moments such as interactions between grandparents and children, adding to the overall appeal of having surveillance cameras in place.
According to Williams, the cameras are not just for safety but also monitor severe weather conditions affecting the park and keep an eye out for medical emergencies. Plans are in place to install additional cameras once the Riverwalk’s expansion project is completed by June 2025. The use of technology in this park setting ensures that visitors can enjoy the trails with an added sense of security and support.
