ADT installed 41 IP surveillance cameras to help monitor the development’s common areas and parking lots. Harris County Constables will monitor the data. ADT burglar alarm systems have been pre-installed in each unit and can be activated by the tenants.

Dennis Spellman, Houston Housing Authority’s vice president of external affairs, called Kennedy Place one of the nation’s finest public housing communities for low-income families. He said ADT will provide an added layer of security for residents and staff of Kennedy Place while also protecting the authority’s investment.

“Security is very important to us,” Spellman said. “We wanted these extra precautions as we are looking to build a neighborhood where the residents and neighbors can feel safe raising their families.”

Sam Sutherland, ADT’s regional sales manager, state and local government, said the company currently helps to protect many public housing projects across the country.

“Everyone wants to live in a safe neighborhood — that doesn’t change based on household income,” he said. “Kennedy Place is a beautiful new development that security can help maintain by discouraging criminal activity in the area.” 

Kennedy Place, located in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward, was originally occupied in 1982. The original buildings were demolished in late 2009 to make way for the new complex that features one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom units with garages. Common area amenities include an amphitheater, walking path, playground and barbecue grills. The $11.5 million redevelopment costs were paid in part with $7.8 million in federal stimulus funds.