Chances are you’ve seen something from Abbotsford while on the go, whether it’s a bus, train, or a vehicle used by first responders. Gatekeeper Systems Inc., a data and video solutions company based in Abbotsford, has made a name for itself across North America, especially in public transportation.
Recently, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) chose Gatekeeper for a pilot program involving its automated streetcar enforcement system (ASES). This system uses video technology to capture evidence and automatically ticket drivers who fail to stop for streetcars when their doors are open. The initial contract is worth about $460,000 and includes deploying the system on four streetcars.
TTC CEO Greg Percy highlighted the need for such technology, noting that many incidents occur daily where drivers ignore open streetcar doors. “Safety is our top concern,” he said, emphasizing the importance of developing this technology to keep commuters safe.
The TTC isn’t the only organization that trusts Gatekeeper. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), one of the largest transit systems in the U.S., has also partnered with them. Since 2019, Gatekeeper has maintained SEPTA’s video systems, and they recently secured a contract extension valued at $2.4 million USD to continue this work. Gatekeeper’s CEO, Douglas Dyment, believes that their successful relationship with SEPTA has raised other agencies’ interest in partnering with them.
Dyment’s journey with Gatekeeper began when he acquired assets from another company for $300,000. That initial investment has led to over $40 million in revenue as they establish credibility with transit systems. The company’s revenue has skyrocketed—from $7.8 million in 2018 to $37.8 million in 2024, marking a notable 36% growth.
A significant part of Gatekeeper’s growth comes from contracts with school districts across North America, including nearby Abbotsford. They equip school buses with safety cameras, helping to protect children. Dyment mentioned there are around 45 million stop-arm violations each year in the U.S. alone. By implementing their systems, districts can enforce laws, keep kids safe, and even generate additional revenue through fines.
Gatekeeper’s mission is rooted in technology and innovation. Dyment first entered the video tech field in 1992, creating systems that were later sold to Honeywell for a significant profit. He has since shifted focus to public safety, making it a priority to expand his company, which also has an office in Bristol, Pennsylvania.
As of today, Gatekeeper employs about 100 people and aims to grow annually by 20%. Dyment is optimistic about opportunities in Canadian markets, particularly in British Columbia and Alberta, where demand for their tech is rising. They’ve even announced new contracts for school buses in Nova Scotia, showcasing their continuous expansion.
For more on Gatekeeper’s innovative solutions, you can visit their official site: Gatekeeper Systems.
In a world increasingly focused on safety and technology, companies like Gatekeeper are paving the way for smarter public transportation and a more secure future for schoolchildren.
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