Client: Chicago Department of Aviation
Location: Chicago, IL
Client: Chicago Department of Aviation
Location: Chicago, IL
To undertake this complex system modernization in a live airport environment, this project began with an evaluation of the existing PA systems, including amplifiers, speakers, speaker cables, ambient sensors, and designated PA coverage zones.
Both the hardware and software in the systems were upgraded, including the technology to display text on video monitors, the text-to-audio system, and the audio paging system. The new menu-based system dispatches messages and other commonly used paging features via computer terminals, analog dial-in phones, and jet bridge microphones. The comprehensive system covers airport terminals, pedestrian walkways, transportation centers, parking, Clear Channel digital display screens, and back-of-house private airport areas.
Oversight of an on-site team of airport technology and operations experts provided system configuration tailored to O’Hare’s operations. The installation team had to be well-versed in aviation standards including Transportation Security Agency (TSA) Regulations (TSARs) parts 1542 and 1544 and FAA Regulations (FAR) 139. The system upgrade improves airport safety, accelerates incident response times, and is integrated with the airport’s command center. It includes a failover power conditioning system.
The Public Address systems upgrades project was one of the few projects that CDA has procured as Design-Build to-date. Our team provided a Contract Administrator, Resident Engineer and two Field Inspectors for this project—providing managerial and clerical services to implement and enforce all applicable codes, standards, specifications, policies, and procedures. With a full understanding of the project scope, plans and specifications, our team coordinated between the direct project assignment and other active Program assignments. Our team coordinated with the design-build team to ensure all pertinent information was collected during the design process to allow for the most complete construction package.
