City hopes wireless network will boost commerce, benefit first responders

The first phase of Brunswick’s wireless deployment has been completed, and the city’s network has gone live. WindChannel Communications of Raleigh, N.C., designed, installed and will service Brunswick’s wireless system.

The goals of the wireless installation are to improve messaging among the area’s government agencies, contribute to economic development and enhance the protection of Brunswick’s citizens and businesses. The city also wishes to extend wireless service to key community and business organizations. 

“Primarily, we wanted our city’s first responders to have fast, secure access to the information they need when on duty and operating from their vehicles,” Brunswick Mayor Bryan Thompson said. “For example, a police officer in the field may have an immediate need to tap into an online crime database. Similarly, a firefighter might find it useful to view the layout of a burning structure before entering it. As we roll out our wireless network, all our crime prevention and rescue professionals will be better-equipped to perform their jobs and serve our community.”

Public safety communications in Brunswick will be carried over a secure, dedicated spectrum, so only authorized personnel will have access to the network—with no chance of interference from the public.

The city also plans to use the network for video surveillance of key areas that city officials wish to monitor on a continuous basis. Initially, cameras will be installed at multiple locations, including parks and recreation facilities. The devices will record crimes committed in these vulnerable areas and serve as deterrents to would-be assailants, thieves and vandals.

Eventually, city officials plan to use the new network to make Internet access available to people visiting, shopping and dining in downtown Brunswick. That way, the city can encourage commerce and support the success of the stores and restaurants that are contributing to Brunswick's growth.

“That’s the beauty of the WindChannel solution—we can start with the basic infrastructure, meet our immediate requirements, and then add capability as our needs evolve and funding becomes available,” Thompson said.

WindChannel is a certified Cisco partner and is using Cisco wireless mesh products in the Brunswick installation. The company provides wireless technology to more than 20 local governments in the Southeastern United States. These local government projects deliver high-speed Internet connectivity and data transfer.