ARLINGTON, Va. - Bomb detection equipment could soon go into place in Arlington County. The idea is to track down the origin of explosive devices in the case of a terrorist attack. The proposal for the installation of this equipment is reportedly being pushed the Department of Defense and could help zero in on suspects faster.
If approved, the devices would be another level of protection for the nearly a quarter million people who call Arlington County home.
The Department of Defense has reportedly asked that the specific type of equipment used and where it will be located in the county remain a secret.
There also reports the Department of Defense wants an exemption from the Freedom of Information Act, which would further prevent public knowledge of the bomb detection equipment's location.
The equipment would also gather data in the event of a terror attack. There was mixed reaction from residents in the county.
"I know it is for protection, but it is very scary," said Janelle King, who works in Arlington.
"I don't know of any cons," said joe Dhedouville. "The pros is keeping everybody safer."
"Although it may be inconvenient for us, we are better off if we can detect things prior to them happening," said Arlington resident Brenda Hunter.
The Arlington County Board may make a decision about this at its regularly scheduled Saturday meeting.
Although the agenda posted online did not list the Department of Defense's proposal, it will likely be added later this week ahead of the meeting.