Chicago plans pilot program for new gunshot detection technology as aldermen question delays
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CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago officials are preparing to launch a pilot program to test new gunshot detection technology in six South and West Side wards, nearly two years after the city stopped using ShotSpotter. The announcement has drawn skepticism from several aldermen, who say they are frustrated by the lack of details and what they describe as little progress toward replacing the system. The city's chief procurement officer announced the pilot program during a City Council committee hearing Tuesday. The program is intended to evaluate the performance of new gunshot detection technology under real-world conditions. ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watchSome aldermen questioned why the city is still testing technology after receiving at least nine bids in April 2025 to replace ShotSpotter. The ABC7 I-Team previously reported 15 companies submitted proposals to the city for new gunshot detection tools after the ShotSpotter system was dismantled in 2024. Those proposals ranged from practical to radical ideas, including the use of drones, AI, and residents' smartphones. "We should have had something already. Why are we doing pilots and testing stuff?
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