Safford , Az Almost Gps Ready
Safford, Ariz., is nearly wired for Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites. In preparation for the arrival of the National Geodetic Survey’s delivery of $250,000 worth of satellite equipment, the Safford Police Department led an effort to locate every monument in the area to test and record the coordinates used for surveying the land.
The effort aided in helping lay the groundwork for the GPS satellites that will be connected to the city’s local system over the next few months. Engineers from surrounding towns and local engineering firms helped Safford authorities with the project.
Safford Police Chief John Griffin said the technology will help facilitate regular updating of an aerial photograph of the city. “That will give us an idea where utility lines go in, and if there is a fire, it will help us get to those places more quickly,” he explained.
Through the program, the utilities department will be able to quickly pinpoint the location of cut-off valves for power in the event a line requires repair or replacement.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center(NLECTC) from the Eastern Arizona Courier (06/19/06); Staten, Aimee .