The AIDS Monument in West Hollywood is a landmark project led by the City of West Hollywood and the Foundation for the AIDS Monument (FAM), created to memorialize the devastation of AIDS, honour the stories of courageous activists and caregivers, and raise awareness about stigma and history. Among the defining elements of the site are 147 bronze pillars, known as The Traces, each standing 13 feet tall and integrated with lighting. Thirty of the pillars are engraved with words that reflect the emotions and experiences of those affected by the AIDS crisis. As both an architectural focal point and a symbolic tribute, these elements demand the highest level of site protection. Adding to the project’s complexity and cultural significance, the remainder of the plaza is being finished with custom stone pavers sourced from Turkey.

The project’s high visibility raised significant security concerns. The monument is located in a heavily trafficked public park that hosts major events such as WeHo Pride, the third-largest Pride event in the U.S., and the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party. As valuable, one-of-a-kind materials arrived on-site and a political protest was scheduled nearby, the need for a proactive security solution became clear. Even a single incident could have halted progress or caused irreversible damage.