Kirkland Enhances Park Safety with Solar Powered Security Cameras

Published on May 24, 2024

Media Contact:
Sergeant Eric Karp
Kirkland Police Department
Email: ekarp@kirklandwa.gov
425-587-3436

Kirkland, WA – The City of Kirkland is taking proactive measures to enhance safety at its waterfront parks by utilizing temporary solar-powered security cameras. This initiative comes in response to a seasonal increase in park visitors and recent incidents in the parks.

Kirkland Police Department’s Chief Harris commented on recent incidents, stating, "[Recently], we had a couple of incidents at Houghton Beach Park and Juanita Beach Park that are similar to those that have proceeded prior critical incidents involving serious injuries. Juanita Beach Park experienced significant gang graffiti on the bathhouse and the Youth Eastside Services (YES) building. At Houghton Beach, large groups of young people returned to the park at all hours of the night, engaging in assaults and we received several reports of a subject threatening others with a handgun."

Temporary security cameras have been installed at Juanita Beach and Houghton Beach parks. The locations were selected based on crime reports and investigative needs. “The Parks Department values this partnership with Kirkland Police and the efforts taken to reduce crime and enhance the safety and enjoyment for all park visitors,” said Parks and Community Services Director Lynn Zwaagstra. The deployment of temporary security cameras is one of several measures being implemented to achieve this goal, along with extra police patrols during park hours of operation. Waterfront parks in Kirkland are open from sunrise to 10:00 p.m.

The cost of each camera setup is approximately $5,000 per month, with an option to extend the rental period. These expenses will be covered by the Kirkland PD budget.

The City of Kirkland appreciates the community's understanding and cooperation as it works to maintain a safe and enjoyable park experience for all visitors.

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