Washington, Pennsylvania, is moving ahead with a new security-camera program aimed at improving safety at three city playgrounds following reports of fighting and bullying at the facilities.

The Washington City Council approved a contract Thursday night with a local security company to install CCTV cameras at the playgrounds. The agreement carries an upfront equipment cost of $42,550, along with a recurring monthly charge of $1,134 for cellular connections that will allow the cameras to communicate with the city’s systems.

City Administrator Rich Cleveland said the initiative was driven by Police Chief Steve Devenney in response to recent problems reported at the playgrounds. Officials believe video surveillance could help improve oversight of the facilities and provide investigators with useful evidence when incidents occur.

The exact locations of the cameras have not yet been disclosed. Cleveland said the installation will take place in phases, meaning the system may not become operational at all three locations simultaneously.

The playground project is part of a wider technology push by Washington officials. Earlier this year, the council also approved a one-year trial involving license-plate reader cameras at four intersections. That system is being introduced separately from the new playground CCTV network.

City leaders are also preparing a public meeting concerning the license-plate reader program so residents can learn more about how that technology will operate.

Alongside the security-camera decision, council members approved a new contract for information-technology and cybersecurity services. The agreement includes an initial payment of $18,058.80 and recurring monthly costs of more than $11,000, putting the first-year expense above $153,000.

The new technology investments show Washington’s growing focus on security and digital infrastructure as city officials respond to safety concerns and seek stronger protection for municipal systems.