Gianaris Announces Security Cameras At Ditmars Blvd. Station

Security cameras have been installed at the DitmarBoulevardterminus of the N and W elevated train lineAssemblymember Michael Gianaris announced last week.

Gianaris (D- Astoria), one of New York's leading anti-terror lawmakers, said the State had provided the funding to protect the station with 10 high-tech security cameras. They will be located at the entrances and exits of the station, positioned to observe people who enter.

"We know that our subway system is a target for terrorists and criminals alike," Gianaris stated. "The addition of these security cameras will place Western Queens in the forefront of this important anti-crime effort."

Gianaris pointed to the recent shooting at the Broadway station on the N and W line as demonstrating the need for such cameras in subway stations. These increasingly important cameras serve not only a vital homeland security function, but are also known to be effective in combatting everyday crime, Gianaris said in a statement.

In addition to the cameras at the Ditmars station, Gianaris said he had secured additional funds which will be combined with $1.4 million in federal money for cameras to be installed at the Astoria Boulevard, 30th Avenue and Broadway stations on the N and W line.

The lawmaker added: "Transit security in New York is a matter of public concern, and the hardworking citizens of this city deserve adequate protection and safety while riding the subway."

Gianaris has been a leader in efforts to improve the state's homeland security efforts through his "Protect New York" initiative. He has also advanced a number of measures specifically to increase the safety of New York's straphangers. His MTA Security Act would give the Office of Homeland Security increased oversight over subway security.