Seven new NYPD Argus cameras have been installed in and around Kissena Corridor Park in Flushing, Council Member Sandra Ung announced last week.
The announcement followed the most recent 109th Precinct Community Council meeting, where concerns over safety in the area were once again raised. The new surveillance equipment, located near IS 237 and the East-West International School, is part of a broader public safety initiative aimed at curbing criminal activity in the park and its surrounding areas.
The cameras were funded through Ung’s discretionary budget, with $500,000 allocated toward public safety improvements during her tenure. Since taking office, Ung has directed funding to expand the use of NYPD Argus cameras throughout the 109th Precinct.
“This stretch of Kissena Corridor Park has unfortunately become known as a desolate and secluded area that attracts criminal activity,” Ung said. “I’m pleased that some of the funding I secured is now being used to install cameras here to help make this part of our Flushing community safer.”
Ung cited recent incidents that prompted increased safety measures, including the violent assault of two teenage girls by a group of teens last week. Last summer, another teenage girl was sexually assaulted in broad daylight in the same section of the park where the new cameras have now been installed.
In the aftermath of the 2024 assault, Ung convened a meeting with officials from the 109th Precinct, school leadership, the NYC Parks Department and state and federal elected representatives to coordinate a response. One of the primary recommendations from that meeting was the installation of NYPD surveillance cameras.
Ung later wrote to Mayor Eric Adams, urging the administration to partner with the NYPD to prioritize the deployment of Argus cameras in the area using existing allocated funds.
“While cameras alone won’t prevent all crimes from happening, I hope their presence will act as a deterrent to those thinking of committing violent or illegal acts in this area,” Ung said. “And when crimes unfortunately do occur, these cameras will give the NYPD valuable evidence to help solve them and bring justice to victims.”
According to officials, Argus cameras can be monitored in real time by NYPD personnel and are often used to provide footage that aids in investigations and prosecutions.
Ung concluded her statement by reaffirming her commitment to ensuring public safety, particularly for students and families who frequent the park and surrounding schools.
“The safety of our children is non-negotiable,” she said. “We must do everything in our power to ensure that public spaces—especially those near our schools—are safe for everyone in our community. I will continue working closely with the NYPD and other city agencies to ensure we are doing everything we can to keep our parks, streets, and schools safe for every member of our community.”
