Leonardo + Port Authority: License Plate Readers "A Huge Game-Changer" for Safety and Crime Reduction

To say we're thrilled to partner with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is an understatement.

Building on the success of the license plate reader technology that's already in use in the Lincoln and Holland tunnels, officials invested an additional $10 million to further enhance their crime-fighting efforts and security systems with new LPRs. 

First up was the installation of our license plate readers on the Goethals Bridge that connects Staten Island, NY and Elizabeth, NJ, as well as on the George Washington Bridge. Coming next: Bayonne Bridge and the Outerbridge Crossing.

Our company is proud to be the driving force behind these innovative LPRs that are revolutionizing safety across the region. According to recent coverage by abc7NY, the Port Authority's investment is paying off.

Key highlights from the press conference and abc7NY's coverage:

• "The teamwork that was created about two years ago results in a win today for the people of Staten Island," said Staten Island Borough President Vita Fossella.
  
  
• In 2018, 184 vehicles were reported stolen on Staten Island. In 2022, that number had risen to a staggering 513. By 2024, it's down to 123 — and officials credit license plate readers.
  
  
• "LPR (license plate readers) are the DNA of the highway," said Port Authority Chief Security Officer Greg Ehrie. "It allows us to know what's going on. They help us mitigate crimes like a child being taken."
  
  
• Leonardo's LPRs help police quickly flag and stop suspicious vehicles, identify toll violators, and catch off-island criminals.

Kudos to the Port Authority for recognizing and acting on the opportunities afforded by license plate readers and — a true testament to their commitment to public safety and their communities. 

For a detailed look at how these LPRs are transforming crime in New York and New Jersey, check out the full article and video on abc7NY: Port Authority highlights new crime-fighting technology for 3 area bridges.

And, of course, feel free to contact us for more information about our license plate readers and how they can benefit your law enforcement agency.