If you are ever going for a walk, run, bike ride or anything else on the Sioux Falls bike trail, you are more than likely being monitored.

This summer, the parks department of Sioux Falls installed cameras in various places along the bike trail. The cameras were put in place to track activity along the trail. Additionally, the cameras will play a major role when there are accidents, or when there is crime along the trails. There are cameras located in Yankton Trails, Falls Park, Park, Beadle Park and Elmen Trailhead.

Ever since COVID-19 hit, activity on the bike trail has increased dramatically as a safe way to get out of the house and exercise. More people on the bike trail has led to an increase in crime and accidents.

“The Sioux Falls Police Department has worked with the Parks Department to place cameras in Fawick Park and Beadle Park for law enforcement purposes,” said Jacob Newton from Keloland News.

Crime along the Sioux Falls bike trail has been a problem for many years. There have been many incidents, including stabbings, kidnappings and attacks.

“The police do not actively monitor the camera network, but will review it if something happens in the area. Cameras installed by other departments have absolutely been useful in the past for carrying out investigations,” said Newton.

By installing cameras, the police department hopes to easily get to the bottom of any crimes, and also reduce the amount of crime on these trails overall.

Because people on the bike trail are now aware that they are being watched, the crime rate on the trails is inevitably going to decrease. Cameras do not lie, so when there is going to be clear evidence of a crime, it is going to decrease the chances at any attempt to break the law. 

These cameras will reduce the frequency of crimes, attacks and accidents that occur on the bike trail. The city will also be able to get a good idea of how many people are using the trail daily. Overall, these cameras are going to create a positive impact on the community and environment of the Sioux Falls bike trails.