Safety and Security at KCHA Subsidized Housing Properties

The safety and well-being of our residents, visitors, and staff is a top priority. KCHA is committed to maintaining safe communities using both security personnel and technology.

Private Security Patrols

KCHA hired Allied Universal to provide professional security services across our communities. Depending on the size and needs of each property, Allied may conduct drive-through or foot patrols to deter unwanted activity, respond to incidents, and maintain a visible security presence. Security personnel are available to assist in shared spaces, such as lobbies, hallways, community rooms, laundry rooms, playgrounds, and other outdoor areas.  

Allied personnel can be identified by uniforms marked with “SECURITY” and the Allied logo.  Security vehicles are marked with the Allied logo and amber-colored strobe lights.

Off-Duty Police Services

KCHA contracts with off-duty police officers at some locations in Kent and Shoreline. 

Off-duty police patrols serve as a visible deterrent to crime.  They also bring professional law enforcement training, with rapid response capabilities and legal authority when needed. While maintaining awareness of potential threats, they also interact with residents and staff, fostering community trust and engagement.  

Security Cameras

KCHA uses cloud-based security cameras to monitor public areas at our properties such as lobbies, hallways, and stairwells. These cameras capture high-resolution, real-time footage to support incident response and investigations.

Camera footage is solely used to enhance safeguard resident privacy and include the following privacy protections:

• Cameras near residential units do not record private areas like a resident’s balcony
• Footage is stored securely through Alta Cloud Storage and deleted after 30 days

Modern Control Systems for Building Access

KCHA has upgraded building access security systems with card readers and electronic key cards or key fobs. These systems help manage entry to buildings and common areas, improving both security and convenience for our residents and staff.

Mobile Security Trailers

At some properties, KCHA uses mobile security trailers. These security trailers provide temporary surveillance and act as a visible deterrent.

Features:

• Strobe lights and floodlights
• Two-way speakers
• Real-time alerts
• Cellular network connectivity
• Data is encrypted, stored in the cloud, and deleted after 30 days

These trailers help protect assets, staff, residents, and guests.

License Plate Reader Cameras

To improve security around the parking lots and support law enforcement, KCHA uses automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras.

How they work:

• ALPRs capture still images of vehicles, including the license plate and unique features of the vehicle
• No video, facial recognition, or personal data is collected
• Data is encrypted, stored in the cloud, and deleted after 30 days
• Shared with law enforcement agencies with logged and auditable access

These tools help deter and solve crimes by providing real-time alerts and searchable vehicle data.

Transparency and Community Engagement

KCHA works hard to protect the safety and security of our residents and staff. If you have questions about our security services or would like to learn more about how we’re working to keep our communities safe, please contact our Safety and Security Department or visit our Contact Us page.