Item 11: School Zone Flashers

Consider approval of Resolution 2022-139R, approving a contract with Consolidated Traffic Controls, Inc. through the Houston Galveston Area Council Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of cell modems and software for all school zone flashers in the estimated amount of $95,340.00; authorizing the City Manager or her designee to execute the contract on behalf of the City; and declaring an effective date.

ARF states that "51 of the school zone flashers are inter-connected using cell phone modem online service."
I see we are adding 4 to our responsibility now and we have 3 more for the newest school.
The ARF also states purpose is to install modems in all school zones.
So, are we replacing modems in 51 or is this just to install modems in the 4 for which we are now responsible and the 3 new ones? ARF doesn't indicate "replacement"

If installing all new modems, as it appears from the ARF, why?
Old ones no longer functional?
We want a new system?

Response provided by Sabas Avila, Director of Public Works:
The City will require new modem service for 58 school zone flashers including existing flashers, transferred TxDOT flashers, and proposed flashers.

The new modem services is required because the City’s previous modem services expired in February 2022. Additionally, the City’s existing modems utilize 3G technology. The 3G network will no longer be supported after December 31, 2022.

The new modems include a 5-year service contract and 4G technology. 4G technology in anticipated to be supported for another ten years.