Georgia City Deploys Wireless Mesh Network To Aid First Responders, Improve Security

The City of Brunswick, Georgia recently announced the completion of the first phase of its wireless mesh deployment. The City of Brunswick has been working with WindChannel Communications for the design, installation and servicing of wireless technologies to upgrade communications among its various government agencies, enhance the protection of its citizens and businesses and contribute to economic development. The network is expected to go live this month.

Brunswick, which is located in Glynn County and lies 65 miles south of Savannah, is the Gateway to Georgia's Golden Isles and a major port for the State of Georgia. Brunswick was seeking a cost effective manner for improving government communications for public safety and extending wireless service to key public and business interests in the city.

"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," said Mayor Bryan Thompson. "For example, a police officer in the field may have an immediate need to tap into an online crime database. Similarly, a fire fighter 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."

Because these communications will be carried over a secure, dedicated spectrum, only authorized personnel will have access to the network, with no chance of interference from the public. The city further plans to use the network for video surveillance of key areas that city officials wish to monitor on a continual basis. Cameras will initially be installed at multiple locations, including parks and recreation. The devices will record crimes committed in these vulnerable areas and serve as deterrents to would-be assailants, thieves and vandals.

"The population of Brunswick is less than 20,000," said Jim Szyperski, WindChannel Communication's CEO, "yet the city's progressive governing bodies have approached this project with all the sophistication of a major city. The Cisco wireless mesh products we are installing are the most advanced wireless products they manufacture and are only available to a small number of certified Cisco partners like WindChannel nationwide. We applaud their commitment to public safety, the protection of property and the development of their downtown commercial district."

Featured

  • Data Driven, Proactive Response

    As cities face rising demands for smarter policing and faster emergency response, Real Time Crime Centers (RTCCs) are emerging as essential hubs for data-driven public safety. In this interview, two experts with deep field experience — Ross Bourgeois of New Orleans and Dean Cunningham of Axis Communications — draw on decades of operational, leadership and technology expertise to share how RTCCs are transforming public safety through innovation, interagency collaboration and a relentless focus on community impact. Read Now

  • Integration Imagination: The Future of Connected Operations

    Security teams that collaborate cross-functionally and apply imagination and creativity to envision and design their ideal integrated ecosystem will have the biggest upside to corporate security and operational benefits. Read Now

  • Smarter Access Starts with Flexibility

    Today’s workplaces are undergoing a rapid evolution, driven by hybrid work models, emerging smart technologies, and flexible work schedules. To keep pace with growing workplace demands, buildings are becoming more dynamic – capable of adapting to how people move, work, and interact in real-time. Read Now

  • Trends Keeping an Eye on Business Decisions

    Today, AI continues to transform the way data is used to make important business decisions. AI and the cloud together are redefining how video surveillance systems are being used to simulate human intelligence by combining data analysis, prediction, and process automation with minimal human intervention. Many organizations are upgrading their surveillance systems to reap the benefits of technologies like AI and cloud applications. Read Now

  • Right-Wing Activist Charlie Kirk Dies After Utah Valley University Shooting

    Charlie Kirk, a popular conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, died Wednesday after being shot during an on-campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah Read Now

New Products

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.