City eyes major upgrade with $1.3 million for new fleet of high-tech drones

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- In the event of a fire, search and rescue or other emergency situation, local personnel could have a new set of eyes in the sky backing them up.

A contract for first reading on Monday's City Council agenda, if approved, would authorize a five year agreement with Axon Enterprise to purchase six Skydio drones and two Skydio docking “nest” systems for $1,372,616, with $274,523 to be appropriated for the first year payment.

Capable of moving up to 45 mph and equipped with advanced 360-degree cameras, spotlights, night vision and enhanced AI, Skydio's state-of-the-art drones would provide a critical vantage point for police, firefighters, public works and transit, boosting response times and safety for residents and public safety officers.

Skydio’s technology enables drones to autonomously launch from fixed stations in response to any location that a bus can travel to, all emergency calls, all the while providing real-time video and data to responding staff or officers.

Using dispatch and CAD systems, drones can respond automatically within seconds, serving as first responder units, assisting police officers and firefighters before they arrive on scene and providing rapid situational awareness at transit stops or transit vehicles, among numerous capabilities.

Drones would even be able to help snow plow crews by evaluating snow routes and verifying completion of snow removal, among other useful capabilities.

Additional capabilities with drone technology

• Can be used to inspect bridges for damage.
• Bus shelters can be inspected, saving manpower.
• Monitor real-time traffic and transit conditions
• Identify obstructions or route hazards, and provide early alerts for congestion or delays.
• Enhances the City’s ability to prioritize maintenance and ensure safe travel for transit users and the public

The contract on Monday's City Council agenda also includes all of the necessary software, accessories, equipment and product warranties. A likely final vote on the measure will take place at the next Council meeting on Dec. 8.