by Glenn Tschimpke
Staff Writer
What would it take to transform Jacksonville’s modest mish mash of communications lines into an enviable fiber optic, cable and wireless network?
This is the question consulting firm Black and Veatch will soon study. The firm was selected last week by the City’s Professional Services Evaluation Committee from five finalists to investigate the feasibility and affordability of wiring Jacksonville for the future.
“The purpose is to take a broad look at Jacksonville’s communications infrastructure and create a citywide network,” said Rick Mullaney, general counsel for the City. “We were looking for a consultant to take a hard look at Jacksonville’s technology issues.”
The proposed study is the result of months of research by the Telecommunications Master Plan Task Force, which Mullaney chairs. The task force is exploring ways to transition Jacksonville from its older communications infrastructure, such as a twisted pair of telephone wires used for computer modems, to next generation gear like high speed fiber optic lines and wireless technology. Black and Veatch will be expected to study all aspects of the transition, from cost to implementation.
“There are countless aspects to look at,” said Mullaney. “There are technical issues, financial issues, legal and regulatory issues.”
Timing is a crucial factor in Black and Veatch’s findings. The Better Jacksonville Plan is expected to play a complementary role in upgrading the city’s communications infrastructure. Over half of the $2.2 billion plan is dedicated to road and infrastructure improvements. While JEA has begun to upgrade drainage and water lines in tandem with road improvement projects, city planners would like to begin upgrading the telecommunications infrastructure with those same projects as well.
Still, task force members have more questions than answers about a citywide telecommunications network at the outset of the study.
“At the end of the road, is this going to be a utility or do we open it up to competition?” asked Sandy Bateh, chief of the City’s Information Technology Division. “Does it come back as a public/private partnership? They need to bring the best practices of what’s being done in the marketplace. We need a vision of 10 to 15 years down the road.”
The study is expected to cost about $250,000 with results delivered in three to four months. The City is currently in contract negotiations with Black and Veatch and barring any disputes, the study should get underway in a few weeks. If the two sides cannot agree on a contract, the bid will be awarded to the runner-up firm, Burns and McDonnell.