Tarentum Upgrades to New License Plate Reader System, Aligning with County-Wide Surveillance Network

April 25, 2026 - 01:42

Tarentum borough officials have approved the installation of new license plate reader technology aimed at enhancing police surveillance capabilities. During a recent council meeting, members voted to enter into an annual agreement with VIPR, LLC, a company specializing in automated license plate recognition systems for law enforcement agencies. The contract carries an annual cost of approximately $2,700.

The decision marks a strategic shift away from the borough's existing PlateSmart system, which has been in use for several years. By transitioning to VIPR's technology, Tarentum will now operate on the same platform utilized by Allegheny County authorities. This alignment is expected to improve data sharing and interoperability between local and county law enforcement, allowing for more seamless tracking of vehicles across jurisdictional boundaries.

License plate readers use high-speed cameras mounted on patrol vehicles or fixed locations to automatically capture and record license plate numbers. The systems cross-reference plates against databases of stolen vehicles, wanted suspects, or vehicles associated with criminal activity. When a match is found, officers receive real-time alerts.

Council members emphasized that the upgrade represents a cost-effective approach to modernizing the borough's surveillance infrastructure. The new system is expected to be operational within the coming weeks, with installation and training provided by VIPR. Officials noted that the technology will be deployed in accordance with state and federal privacy regulations governing the collection and retention of license plate data.