The Town of Ramapo has launched a new Business District Safety Initiative, a pilot program designed to enhance safety and visibility in downtown shopping areas during peak evening hours.
Beginning Thursday evening, January 22, the Ramapo Police Department is deploying high-visibility drone patrols over business parking lots from the evening hours through store closing times. The initiative is focused on increasing visibility and deterrence during a time when foot traffic remains high but darkness sets in earlier.
Speaking with Monsey Scoop, Michael Specht, Supervisor of the Town of Ramapo, explained that the program is a proactive safety measure aimed at protecting shoppers and employees during evening hours.
“This is a pilot program we’re trying out starting tonight to provide some extra safety and coverage in the downtown shopping area,” Supervisor Specht told Monsey Scoop. “Between six and nine o’clock, a lot of people are shopping, and with it getting dark earlier, people can be more vulnerable when leaving stores. This isn’t in response to any specific threat — it’s about being proactive and adding an extra layer of observation and security for our residents.”
Supervisor Specht noted that the drone patrols will operate in addition to regular police patrols, with officers continuing to patrol the area in sector cars. The drones will serve as an added resource to enhance situational awareness and provide backup coverage if a response is needed.
The drone operations will be limited strictly to exterior areas, such as business parking lots, and will not include interior monitoring. Town officials emphasized that the initiative is observational in nature and part of a broader effort to deter crime and support public safety during busy evening hours.
The pilot program reflects the town’s ongoing commitment to working with local businesses to create a safer environment for shoppers, employees, and residents throughout Ramapo.
