By: Azalea Mitch

Work to improve the City’s emergency communication system will continue Dec. 8. A contractor is replacing an existing 60-foot high tower antenna located behind City Hall, with a new monopole structure that will be 120 feet high. With the increased height, the Police Department will be able to operate an independent radio communication network with full coverage for 911 dispatchers. Also mounted on the monopole will be antennas for Public Works and the County’s mutual aid radio network. Once completed, all systems will have a more robust and extensive radio transmission range. The first phase of the project involved building the foundation for the new structure, which was completed Nov. 17. The second phase consists of the installation of the 120-foot structure to the foundation. The work will require the closure of the parking lot next to the Council Chambers Friday, Dec. 8. Intermittent work following the installation of the antenna may have impacts on a few parking spaces.