The City of Vacaville is proud to announce the launch of its Real-Time Information Center (RTIC) — a first-in-region public safety and data operations hub designed to improve emergency response, enhance quality of life and increase community and officer safety through timely, informed decision-making.
The development of the RTIC, led by the City of Vacaville’s Police Department, is a technology-forward initiative as a result of a $4.4 million California Board of State and Community Corrections grant aimed at combating organized retail theft.
However, the RTIC is not just a tool for law enforcement — it supports citywide operations. In addition to public safety and patrol support, the RTIC is designed as a multidisciplinary model to ensure real-time intelligence serves all departments and partner agencies involved in protecting and supporting Vacaville’s residents.
“The RTIC is about awareness, transparency and delivering the right information to the right people at the right time,” said Chief of Police Chris Polen. “It’s not just about catching bad guys – it’s about making better, safer decisions for everyone. We are a quality-of-life policing city, not necessarily a crime city. This center had to reflect that mission.”
Key Capabilities of the RTIC
- Integration with dispatch and criminal databases to track suspects, vehicles and patterns.
- Intelligence support for in-progress calls and critical Incidents.
- Field Officer support during active calls to monitor evolving risks.
- Live access to public safety camera feeds to support real-time response decision-making.
- Regional collaboration through data sharing with allied agencies.
- Assists with emergency management and fire-related calls for service.
All video and data access is governed by policy and used only in connection with active calls for service or lawful investigations.
In response to the nationwide epidemic of organized retail theft, the RTIC equips officers with immediate intelligence and coordinated data, allowing for expedited interventions and strengthened partnerships with retailers to combat crime. The development of the RTIC represents a strategic shift toward smarter, more responsive public safety services supporting the City’s long-term goals for operational innovation and quality of life.
“This facility reflects Vacaville’s commitment to innovation and proactive public safety,” said Mayor John Carli. “As a former chief of police, I understand how this technology gives officers a strategic advantage. It’s a responsible, forward-looking use of public resources to protect both the community and our officers.”
This investment in real-time intelligence follows a national trend among leading public safety agencies and marks a new era of technology-enabled policing for the City of Vacaville. The future is here. View an introduction video and learn more at CityofVacaville.gov/RTIC.