KEMAH — Residents in Kemah now have a safer option for online transactions and custody exchanges, thanks to an updated Citizen Exchange Safety Zone at the Kemah Police Department.

The designated area, located in the department’s parking lot, is monitored by surveillance cameras around the clock. Police officials say the space is intended to give community members peace of mind during in-person meetings for online purchases, custody exchanges, and other transactions.

“With everything going on with thefts, robberies, and setups, we felt this was a good idea,” Chief Raymond Garivey told KGTX 7. “The spot has always been here, but we’ve updated the area with new signs. It’s even suitable for child custody exchanges. There is video recording, so people can feel safe and secure.”

According to Garivey, the department received positive feedback from residents after making the updates last Wednesday. “Citizens have told us, ‘Thank you so much, I feel so much better doing it at the station versus meeting in a store parking lot,’” he said.

The Citizen Exchange Safety Zone is open to the public 24/7.

_{Photo credit: Kemah Police Facebook}