In order to accommodate the new improved microwave system, a complete examination of the existing infrastructure was required on a site-by-site basis.  These assessments revealed the need for new communications shelters; structures specifically designed to house today's precision electronic equipment.  After comprehensive research in early spring, specifications were prepared and the shelters bid.  CSI Communications Shelters of Londonderry, New Hampshire provided the compliant low bid by providing a monolithic concrete shelter.

In September the first of eleven new shelters, were delivered to sites at O.C.C. on Onondaga Hill and Rose Hill in Marcellus. To provide long-term life to each system, pad on grade foundations were first prepared, and electrical / communications conduit placed.

The Onondaga County Department of Transportation trimmed trees and prepared the site's drive at O.C.C.  Each structure, delivered empty of equipment other then electrical, HVAC, lighting, alarms and a Telco demark board, weighs in at ~46,000-lbs. A 75-ton hydraulic crane is required to perform a safe and steady "pick".



As the OCICS Phase I Microwave Radio System project moves forward; employees of both United Radio Service, Alcatel's installation contractor, and the County's 911 Center Technical Services team took part in the assembly phase, network programming and training; a requirement under the County's contract with Alcatel. During the assembly, network and training cycle Ed Healy and Sean Sparks of the Technical Services team reported to Alcatel's Longview, Texas plant.

Once assembled, testing began in earnest on the microwave system. Sean Sparks, the 911 microwave NCIC (Network Communications Infrastructure Coordinator) remained on site for additional alarm system and system management training. During the first week of February, the OCICS team of consultants, and 911 staff including Deputy Commissioner Munroe reported to the Longview facility for the "Customer Witness Test" (CWT).

The CWT consisted of a series of tests designed to show proof of equipment and software performance before shipping for installation. Alcatel provided a full briefing of the testing procedures. County consulting engineers, Langone & Associates, and Charles Gabriel, OCICS administrative project manager, participated and requested additional testing when clarifications were deemed necessary. The end result of this effort will assure fewer field installation issues once the equipment is delivered, staged, installed at tower sites and becomes operational.