Visitors to Henry County football stadiums will soon see enhanced security measures. The district approved buying a new weapons detection system during a called meeting on Monday, August 28.
The system, developed by Evolv, is commonly used at various professional sports venues. Examples include the Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Aquarium.
Weapons Detection System
The district will install the new system at the ten Henry County high school football stadiums. The system consists of the Evolv Express Single Lane point of entry. According to the Evolv website, “the Evolv weapons detection system combines powerful sensor technology with proven artificial intelligence (AI), security ecosystem integrations, and comprehensive venue analytics to ensure safer, more accurate threat detection at an unprecedented speed and volume.” The district will buy twenty units — two for each high school.
The purchase price totals $2,143,970.60. This includes the cost of installation, training and four years’ subscription and annual maintenance. The purchase will be paid for using capital project funds. Henry County Schools previously allocated such funds for school security projects. The school board allocated $10 million dollars towards safety projects at their June 2023 meeting.
In addition to the new weapons detection systems, the district will continue to maintain the clear bag policy for events. They are also exploring an investment in mobile technology for use at other events.
School Security
Henry County Schools has made several investments in school security. Some examples include the new access control system installed at all schools, door ajar alarms and additional school resource officers. Last spring, the district held town hall meetings to discuss school safety. Further research in weapons detection systems, and subsequent investment, was asked for by those in attendance.
Featured image shows the Evolv system in use at a Cleveland Browns game. Evolv photo.
