Johnson Controls to expand wireless access, upgrade infrastructure for Cumberland, Md.
• Comprehensive systems installation to create city-wide WiFi capabilities and energy savings, improve AMR capabilities
MILWAUKEE, WI, Jan. 24, 2006 -- The city of Cumberland, MD, has recently signed a $3.7 million performance contract with Johnson Controls Inc. to expand the city's current wireless backbone to include city-wide WiFi access and upgrade existing building infrastructures. The upgrade will benefit residents and businesses as well as the city by providing comprehensive wireless internet access and more than $480,000 annually in energy and operational savings.
In addition to expanding the existing wireless backbone, the comprehensive project includes retrofitting existing water meters, installing a WiFi-compatible Automated Meter Reading system (AMR), upgrading more than three city buildings by improving existing HVAC technology, installing the Metasys® building management system and updating lighting as well as retrofitting existing traffic lights.
As a result of project, Cumberland expects to save $8 million in energy costs and technology efficiencies over the 15 year term of the contract...
"As a result of this performance contract with Johnson Controls, the residents and businesses of Cumberland will have access to the best technology available," said Jeffery Repp, city administrator of the city of Cumberland. "Combined with enhanced energy efficiency and guaranteed savings, Cumberland is kicking off the new year on the right foot."
A performance contract pays over time for improvements made now through increased energy and operational savings. This allows the city to upgrade aging infrastructure through a program that essentially will pay for itself.
The new WiFi-compatible AMR system will improve Cumberland operations by decreasing water meter reading errors, avoiding trips to homes for readings, and catching anomalies far in advance. By recognizing issues in real-time, the city will be able to identify water leaks at residences or businesses immediately, resulting in decreased response time and associated costs.
Johnson Controls broke ground in October and the project is scheduled to be completed in December 2007.
"The city of Cumberland is taking great strides toward enhancing the technology available to area residents," said Chris Kaiser, local government representative at Johnson Controls. "Cumberland is a shining example of what Maryland communities can do to enhance their operational and energy efficiency while providing better service for citizens."
Johnson Controls (www.johnsoncontrols.com) is a global leader in interior experience, building efficiency and power solutions. The company provides innovative automotive interiors that help make driving more comfortable, safe and enjoyable. For buildings, it offers products and services that optimize energy use and improve comfort and security. Johnson Controls also provides batteries for automobiles and hybrid electric vehicles, along with systems engineering and service expertise. Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) has 136,000 employees in more than 1,000 locations serving customers in 125 countries. Founded in 1885, the company is headquartered in Milwaukee, WI.
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Also see: "Johnson Controls helps OH, SC towns upgrade water meters"
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