The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) wants to hear from residents about its new security robot, Parker, according to a new press release.
Parker, a 5-foot tall, 420-pound robot with a 360-degree security camera, will be able to patrol the Town Square Garage on Ellsworth Drive in Silver Spring.
Parker detects objects in its path with lidar. The robot also comes equipped with infrared sensors, emergency call buttons and a license plate reader.
Parker’s Bumpy Start
Following a less than enthusiastic reception by the County Council last month, MCDOT will take its case to the residents to get their feedback on the autonomous security robot.
With a $100,000 price tag on Parker’s one year pilot program, the County wants to make sure it earns its keep.
The Town Square Garage stands as one of the county’s busiest and largest parking facilities. The seven-floor building houses 1,280 parking spaces and accommodates 9,000 customers every month.
Robot Helps with Security
The robot, built by Knightscope, was employed to help cover staff shortages in county law enforcement.
MCDOT Director Chris Conklin highlighted security concerns for the busy parking structure, “We know that crime and vandalism are concerns for the public in our parking garages, and the addition of Parker will provide extra security presence. The security robot can also be used to summon help during an emergency.”
Schedule of Outreach Events
The following public outreach events are planned in Silver Spring:
- Sunday, Aug. 31, noon–5 p.m. Ethiopian Day Festival, Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.
- Sunday, Sept. 7, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Silver Spring End of Summer Festival, Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.
- Thursday, Sept. 18, 5-7 p.m. Parking Store, 801 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring.
- Saturday, Sept. 27, noon–4 p.m. Parking Store, 801 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring.
According to Conklin, the community feedback will help determine the fate of Parker’s pilot program.
