What is the Strategic Operations Center (SOC) in Baltimore?

The Strategic Operations Center (SOC) is a new initiative launched by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and the University of Maryland to improve safety and cleanliness in downtown Baltimore.

How will the SOC in Baltimore use technology to address issues?

The SOC will utilize dozens of 24/7 monitored surveillance cameras and self-learning technology to detect and respond to problems like graffiti, public intoxication, and overflowing trash cans.

Who is involved in the Baltimore SOC project?

The SOC is a collaborative effort between law enforcement, nonprofits, and other organizations in Baltimore to address safety and cleanliness issues in the city's downtown area.

Home / Crime and Justice / Baltimore's New Security Hub Launches Pilot to Boost Downtown Safety

Baltimore's New Security Hub Launches Pilot to Boost Downtown Safety

9 Sep

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Summary

$2 million approved for new Strategic Operations Center (SOC)
SOC to utilize dozens of 24/7 monitored cameras and self-learning technology
Collaboration between law enforcement, nonprofits, and other organizations

Baltimore's New Security Hub Launches Pilot to Boost Downtown Safety

In September 2025, Baltimore's Downtown Partnership and the University of Maryland are set to launch a new Strategic Operations Center (SOC) aimed at improving safety and cleanliness in the city's downtown area. The pilot phase of the SOC is expected to begin by the end of this year, thanks to $2 million in funding approved by the Maryland Board of Public Works.

The SOC will serve as a hub for multiple agencies, including law enforcement, nonprofits, and other organizations, to collaborate on addressing issues in the downtown district. At the heart of the initiative are dozens of new surveillance cameras that will be monitored 24/7, along with other self-learning technology designed to detect and report on problematic behaviors like graffiti, public intoxication, and overflowing trash cans.

According to Shelona Stokes, president of the Downtown Partnership, the advanced technology will allow the SOC to quickly identify and respond to incidents, deploying the appropriate resources. The goal is to create a safer and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

The launch of the SOC pilot comes as downtown Baltimore business owners have been grappling with a range of security challenges, from vandalism to confrontations with armed juveniles. With the new center set to go live in the coming months, the community is hopeful that it will help curb these issues and revitalize the city's urban core.

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