City Council Newsletter - 01/25/07

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all the questions and comments from the meeting, as well as those received by e-mail and through the project web site, and will provide a summary to the stakeholder group once it is formed. The stakeholder process is underway, with staff reviewing a list of stakeholder categories proposed at the community meeting and developing a list of potential representatives from those who indicated interest at the meeting as well as other interested parties. A firm timeline has not yet been developed, although staff anticipates that the stakeholder process will take at least a couple of months to complete. For more information, contact Project Manager Chris Henry at 682-8472 or visit the project web site at www.eugene-or.gov/pwprojects (click on the Willamette Street study link). New Baggage Screening Machines Streamline Check-in, Help Security at Airport New baggage scanning machines have been installed at the Eugene Airport, providing faster service for travelers. The new machines allow for a higher level of security with automated explosives detection capabilities. The system can process 100 bags an hour, which makes the security scanning process more efficient for airlines and ultimately for passengers. The use of the new machines will also reduce baggage screener injuries and reduce costs for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Congress has been advocating for the introduction of technological improvements since the TSA took responsibility for screening all baggage accompanying a commercial passenger aircraft. Four machines, valued at more than $330,000 each, were installed at the Eugene Airport by the TSA. The cost to the Eugene Airport was minimal: the installation of new carpet. Construction layout plans and building cost estimates for eventually moving the machines behind the airline ticketing area are in the works. Funding sources for this work have not yet been finalized. This joint project, including five regional airports in Oregon, was proposed by the Oregon Airport Management Association. Members of Oregon’s congressional delegation worked with the TSA to secure machines for the Eugene, Redmond and Medford airports. The Klamath Falls and Coos County airports are slated to receive the machines at a later date. For more information, contact Cathryn Stephens, marketing and administration supervisor, at 682-6638. Hult Center Installs New Assisted Listening Device System After nearly 25 years of service, the Hult Center’s Assisted Listening Device (ALD) system was in dire need of replacement. With the goal of providing better service to hearing-impaired patrons in all Hult event spaces, Hult Center technical staff investigated the possibility of repairing and upgrading the former system, but found that the purchase of a new ALD system was a more feasible option. After looking at several systems and demos, staff chose a system made by Listen Technology, and Anderson Group International (AGI) was awarded the contract to design and install the new system. The new infrared and FM band ALD system, paid for by Telecom funds, is specifically suited for the special needs of patrons with varying degrees of hearing impairment and has several different comfort options. The system also has a channel function that allows for descriptive programming for patrons with sight impairments. The new system covers both Silva and Soreng performance spaces, as well as The Studio and lobby. AGI was given the challenge of providing 100% high quality coverage in each area. “On testing the system when it was finished, I found that it performed well beyond my expectations. Each area had complete coverage to every seat (and beyond) and the sound quality was fantastic,” said Denny Conn, Hult Center head audio engineer. EUGENE CITY COUNCIL NEWSLETTER PAGE 3 January 25, 2007