HOUSTON -- New security measures are being installed at METRO's Park & Ride lots in an effort to reduce crime, KPRC Local 2 reported Friday.

METRO's new security system will include more video cameras, emergency call boxes, computer-controlled gates and motion detectors in the parking lots.

Officials said the benefits definitely outweigh the cost of the $16 million price tag for the state-of-the-art technology.

But the public still plays a vital role in safety.

"No matter what technology you use, no matter what number of police officers you have, it's still very important that the public take ownership for this system. When they see something out of place, they report it," said METRO Police Chief Tom Lambert. "If you see something, say something."

The Kuykendahl Park & Ride, located at 12920 Kuykendahl near Interstate 45 North, was the first lot to receive the system in August.

Twenty cameras are in place at the lot. They will be manned 24 hours a day by METRO police officers.

All 26 Park & Ride locations should have the new security system in place by January.