Securing Citywide Connectivity with Broadband Wireless Networks

Client Overview

A public sector law enforcement agency responsible for securing communication across 24 strategic locations faced growing pressure to modernize its digital infrastructure. To meet operational demands for secure, real-time data sharing and centralized monitoring, the agency launched a strategic broadband wireless deployment using WiMAX 802.16(d) technology to establish a secure citywide network.

Executive Summary

To modernize network communications and support public safety operations, the client executed a four-month broadband wireless deployment leveraging WiMAX and Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) across 24 key sites. The program aimed to ensure secure connectivity, centralized visibility, and operational resilience. Each location was configured for a committed information rate (CIR) of 512 kbps. Guided by PMI-aligned governance and Agile execution, the project achieved secure transmission, internal skill development, and integration with existing infrastructure.

Background

The agency’s legacy communications infrastructure lacked the speed, flexibility, and security necessary to support growing law enforcement demands. Network limitations impacted coordination, data availability, and public safety response times. With increasing data volume and cybersecurity risks, the agency pursued a wireless broadband solution to address these gaps and enable secure, centralized control of mission-critical systems.

Objectives

Project goals were defined to ensure secure operations, technical scalability, and centralized management:

Deliver Secure Citywide Connectivity: Implement WiMAX broadband across 24 sites with guaranteed CIR and encrypted access.
Ensure Infrastructure Readiness: Evaluate and prepare physical sites for wireless deployment.
Enable Centralized Management: Deploy network monitoring tools to streamline operations.
Build Internal Capability: Train IT staff for independent operations and troubleshooting.
Integrate with Core Systems: Align VPN, PSTN, DHCP, and operating environments with new network architecture.

Problem Statement

Fragmented Communication Channels: Lack of real-time coordination between critical law enforcement sites.
Security Vulnerabilities: Legacy systems lacked encryption, access controls, and reliable network oversight.
Resource Constraints: Internal teams required support for design, installation, and maintenance.
Vendor Complexity: Multiple suppliers and contractors required streamlined integration.
Tight Deployment Timeline: Full rollout was needed within four months to meet funding and operational milestones.

Methodology & Governance

A structured governance model combined PMI-based program controls with Agile planning to ensure accountability and timely execution:

PMI and Agile Integration: Formal schedules and milestones supported by iterative planning and feedback loops.
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): Clear definition of site assessments, procurement, configuration, and validation.
Integrated Governance Framework: Roles and responsibilities structured using RACI and RAM models.
Steering Oversight and Coordination: Weekly reviews aligned internal teams and external vendors.
Centralized Documentation: Technical records, site logs, and audit trails maintained for compliance and reuse.

Solution Overview

The deployed solution delivered a robust, secure wireless network integrated with municipal IT systems and centralized controls:

WiMAX Architecture: 24 sites equipped with Base Terminal Units (BTUs), Subscriber Units (SUs), and Foundry switching hardware.
Core System Integration: Connectivity with PSTN, VPN, DHCP servers, and Windows 2007 operating systems.
Management & Support Tools: Network Management Suite (NMS) enabled centralized monitoring and diagnostics.
Vendor Collaboration: Partnerships with Cisco, Microsoft, Redline, and Foundry ensured compatibility and support.
Security and Reliability: SSL encryption, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring ensured data protection.

Implementation Phases

Phases followed PMI’s five process groups for traceability, milestone verification, and closeout:

Initiation and Planning:
- Conducted readiness assessments for 24 deployment sites.
- Documented site-specific infrastructure, security, and installation requirements.
Execution: Network Equipment Deployment:
- Procured WiMAX BTUs, SUs, Cisco routers, and switches.
- Deployed cabling, power systems, and core hardware at all sites.
Execution: Integration and Configuration:
- Commissioned VPN, DHCP, PSTN, and OS integration.
- Configured network policies and redundancy protocols.
Execution: Training and Capacity Building:
- Trained IT personnel on NMS tools and system maintenance.
- Provided troubleshooting procedures and escalation paths.
Monitoring, Acceptance, and Closure:
- Completed performance benchmarks and security audits.
- Issued acceptance certificates and archived closeout documentation.

Risk Management

Risks were identified and mitigated using PMI-based controls and stakeholder engagement:

Site-Level Deployment Risks: Addressed with pre-deployment checklists and readiness reviews.
Vendor Coordination Delays: Managed through phased deployment and milestone-based accountability.
Security Threats: Protected using SSL, access controls, and encrypted protocols.
Timeline Constraints: Tracked via daily status reviews and critical path adjustments.
Skill Gaps: Closed through targeted training programs and SOP development.
Infrastructure Variation: Managed with site-specific planning and adaptive engineering.

Results & Impact

The broadband deployment achieved all technical, operational, and governance objectives:

Secure Network Operations: Encrypted broadband connectivity across 24 critical law enforcement sites.
Centralized Visibility: Full NMS-enabled monitoring and performance control.
Internal Capability: IT team equipped for independent operations and troubleshooting.
On-Time Completion: Project delivered within the four-month timeline and available resources.

Lessons Learned

Site Readiness Ensures Continuity: Pre-deployment assessments reduced delays and installation errors.
Training Enables Sustainability: Onboarding IT teams early ensured seamless transition and self-sufficiency.
Phased Deployment Supports Agility: Segmenting rollout improved issue resolution and resource allocation.
Vendor SLAs Maintain Accountability: Formal agreements supported quality, timing, and coordination.
Documentation Enables Scaling: Technical templates and SOPs now serve future expansion.

Conclusion

The broadband wireless program demonstrated how secure, high-speed connectivity can be delivered at scale across urban law enforcement sites. The project’s alignment with PMI standards, disciplined execution, and vendor collaboration positioned the agency for sustained operational success and future network expansion.

Call to Action

Seeking secure, citywide connectivity for your agency? We partner with public safety and municipal clients to deliver reliable, PMI-aligned wireless infrastructure tailored to mission-critical demands.