2010 News Archive
Johns Creek installs radio system for better communications
4/7/2010
Johns Creek has installed a new radio system to enhance communications, especially in a disaster.
During an ice storm earlier this year, City officials observed that many Public Works employees were using cell phones to talk with each other. Concerned cellular telephone systems could go down during major disasters, officials opted to add a new radio system that would be more reliable.
Should a disaster strike, the radios will be distributed primarily to City administrators, department heads, and other workers as needed. The system is separate from the Public Safety communications network, but in an emergency, Police and Fire Department supervisors will be issued the new radios as well.
A 6-foot antenna was erected atop City Hall, because the building is one of the tallest in the community. The antenna's diminutive size also makes it less susceptible to wind damage, but it is powerful enough to cover virtually the entire city.
Currently, about 10 of the 52 radios are already being used by Public Works employees. The radios also could be used for some special events.
The estimated $20,000 purchase came out of the $17 million contract that the City pays to CH2M HILL, a private firm the City hired to provide most day-to-day municipal services.