GIS Technology Enhances Maritime Security: GTG’s Geospatial Innovations for the City of St. Paul, MN, Police Department 

In 2022, the City of St. Paul, MN, Police Department (SPPD) recognized the urgent need to modernize its Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools to strengthen its maritime domain awareness and operational efficiency. As the 13th largest inland port in the United States by tonnage, the Port of St. Paul plays a vital role in Minnesota’s freight transportation network and economic ecosystem. SPPD, as the primary law enforcement agency for the port, shoulders critical responsibilities, including public safety, crime prevention, and community engagement, while also securing port infrastructure and operations. 

The Challenge 

While SPPD had long utilized GIS for crime analysis, incident tracking, and resource deployment, the department faced significant challenges with its existing systems. Their custom-built crime analytics platform had reached end-of-life status, relying on outdated technology that was neither scalable nor efficient. The limitations of this aging system impeded SPPD’s ability to fully leverage GIS capabilities, particularly in the complex and dynamic environment of port operations. Modernization was essential for SPPD to enhance situational awareness, improve real-time monitoring, and respond more effectively to incidents in both the city and port areas. 

Partnering for Progress 

In collaboration with the City’s Office of Technology and Communications (OTC), SPPD enlisted Geographic Technologies Group (GTG), a leader in GIS solutions, to overhaul its GIS infrastructure. GTG’s mission was clear: develop and implement modern, integrated GIS tools that would empower SPPD to improve crime analysis, resource allocation, and maritime security operations. This partnership aimed to: 

  • Replace the outdated crime analytics system with cutting-edge GIS technology. 
  • Enhance maritime domain awareness through spatially enabled tools. 
  • Integrate surveillance systems for real-time situational monitoring. 

GIS Solutions and Innovations 

GTG delivered transformative GIS solutions tailored to the unique needs of SPPD and the Port of St. Paul: 

  1. Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness: GTG implemented a spatially enabled common operational picture (COP) that integrates GIS technology with surveillance systems, including closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. This integration enables SPPD to monitor critical areas within the port in real time, improving situational awareness and incident response. 
  1. Advanced Crime Analytics: A modernized GIS-based crime analysis platform was deployed, replacing the outdated system. The new solution allows SPPD to visualize crime patterns, analyze trends, and make data-driven decisions regarding patrol and resource allocation. 
  1. Surveillance Data Integration: By linking CCTV camera locations and surveillance feeds with GIS tools, SPPD can overlay live visual data onto geographic maps. This integration provides officers with a comprehensive, real-time view of port operations, enabling the faster detection of suspicious activities or potential threats. 
  1. SafeCityGIS Implementation: GTG’s SafeCityGIS solution enhances SPPD’s ability to manage public safety efforts, including incident mapping, emergency response coordination, and resource deployment. 

Results: Improved Security and Public Safety 

The implementation of GTG’s GIS solutions has had a profound impact on SPPD’s operations and port security: 

  • Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities: SPPD now has the tools to monitor port infrastructure, freight operations, and surrounding areas more effectively, leading to improved maritime security. 
  • Faster and Smarter Response: By combining GIS data with live surveillance, officers can quickly identify, assess, and respond to incidents, minimizing potential disruptions and threats. 
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: SPPD’s improved ability to analyze and visualize crime data allows for smarter resource allocation and proactive crime prevention strategies. 
  • Strengthened Community and Economic Protection: These advancements not only enhance public safety but also safeguard the port’s critical economic functions, benefiting businesses, workers, and residents. 

A Safer, Stronger Future for St. Paul 

GTG’s geospatial solutions have significantly modernized SPPD’s technological capabilities, reinforcing the department’s commitment to public safety and community-oriented policing. By embracing GIS innovation, SPPD has positioned itself as a leader in port security and maritime domain awareness. 

The improvements achieved through this partnership are far-reaching. For residents and businesses in St. Paul, the port is now safer and more secure. For SPPD, the modern GIS infrastructure serves as a critical tool to fulfill its mission of protecting the community, preventing crime, and ensuring the smooth operation of one of the nation’s most important inland ports. 

 The success of this project demonstrates the power of GIS technology in solving complex challenges and highlights the value of collaboration between public safety agencies, technology partners, and municipal leadership. 

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To learn more about GIS Services from Geographic Technologies Group, please feel free to reach out. You can speak to our team by calling 888.757.4222 or emailing moreinfo@geotg.com.