North Chicago IT Department Focused on Modernizing City’s Technology Infrastructure

Behind the scenes, a team of highly trained professionals works every day to keep the City of North Chicago’s operations running smoothly. Among them is the City’s Information Technology (IT) Department, which plays a critical role in maintaining and modernizing the technology infrastructure that supports city services and operations.

The IT Department oversees the City’s computer network and a variety of technology and infrastructure programs. Several important IT infrastructure and public safety projects are currently underway. Here’s a look at some of the department’s latest initiatives and how they are helping to strengthen technology and services throughout North Chicago.

City Network Infrastructure

-IT completed the network infrastructure upgrades at City Hall, including the connectivity supporting Fire Station 1. The City Hall network backbone is now operating at 10 Gbps, providing significantly more capacity for current operations and future expansion.

-IT completed the network switch upgrade at Public Works. The new FortiSwitch is now centrally managed through the City Hall FortiGate, giving IT improved visibility and management of the remote site.

-IT deployed the new Metra Station network switch.  IT’s next focus area is Fire Station 2. The Water Plant will be the final major site because IT is planning a larger redesign of the network infrastructure at that facility rather than simply replacing the existing equipment. 

Police Department – Squad Car Getac Replacement

-The new Getac equipment for the Police Department squad cars has arrived, and IT’s initial pilot deployment was successful with no significant issues.

-IT has completed three squad cars with the new Getac computers and will continue the rollout as equipment is prepared and vehicles become available.

Police Department – iTouch Livescan / Fingerprint System

-The new iTouch fingerprint/Livescan system has now been operational for more than a month. The core system is functioning, and IT continues to work through a few remaining workflow and integration items.

-IT completed the Integration between Tyler CAD/RMS and the iTouch Livescan system.  

“Overall, we continue to make good progress on both the city network modernization and Police Department technology projects. I will keep everyone updated as we complete the remaining sites and public safety integrations,” explained Fabio Usma, MBA, Systems Engineer.