The Allen Police Department Headquarters building and Allen City Hall building both have significant areas where public safety emergency radio communications fail. The reliability of portable radios used by emergency responders inside of buildings is a requirement of the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 510 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage. Building construction features and materials can absorb or block the radio frequency energy used to carry the signals inside or outside the building.  Blockage or absorption of the radio can prevent critical message from an emergency responder from being received and acknowledged. Depending on the incident, this loss of information can place other emergency responders in greater danger, or may prevent an injured or disoriented emergency responder from communicating for assistance.  The code requirement applies to analog or digital radio systems and is applicable to all new and existing buildings within the city.   

The proposed cost covers all materials and labor. Larson Associates USA, Inc., was selected to complete the work as they have an existing contract with the City of Plano related to servicing the joint public safety radio system.

The total cost of $100,426 will be paid from Unprogrammed General Capital Projects Funds.

Staff recommends that the City Council authorize the City Manager to purchase Bi-Directional antennas, associated equipment and installation from Larson Associates USA, Inc., to increase Public Safety Radio Communications within the Allen Police Headquarters and Allen City Hall in the amount of $100,426.

I make a motion to authorize the City Manager to purchase Bi-Directional antennas, associated equipment and installation from Larson Associates USA, Inc., to increase Public Safety Radio Communications within the Allen Police Headquarters and Allen City Hall in the amount of $100,426.