2007 Issue

UTAH ENGINEERS COUNCIL JOURNAL 37 The GPS Reference Network that is being constructed and put into operation by AGRC is of major benefit to the GIS Professional as well as the Professional Land Surveyor. As we move into the future, the desires and expectations of our clients, utility providers, and the public in general will be brought to the forefront more than at any time in history. The reliability of the data we collect and provide will in some cases determine the longevity of our firms and in our firm’s ability to remain viable. As AGRC moves forward with this project, the need for monies to maintain, improve and expand the statewide network will be with us constantly. The Utah Council of Land Surveyors have teamed with AGRC to address the money issue. Together, we have been successful in getting to line items into the Governor’s budget. The first would procure the needed funds to completely finish the construction of the network. To realize this phase, the hardware, software and testing would all be completed and the system put on line. The second would be a procurement of perpetual funds from the state to maintain and upgrade the network as needs arise. In closing, I make a request that all of us actively do our part in soliciting our local government representatives to look favorably on this funding request and help to guarantee the receipt of the needed funds. The need and use of this network that AGRC and dedicated partners through donated hard- ware, structure and monies have launched will carry us into the future of our respective professions. All of our support will be needed to realize the full potential and benefit that this network will provide. By the way, Sean Frenandez, the origina- tor of the state wide network will be speak- ing at the annual UCLS Conference. The conference will be held February 22 and 23, 2007. The place is the Dixie Center in St. George Utah. If you can, please take the time to attend. UCLS — continued The Utah Reference Network Global Positioning System Scope of Work This network would strategically locate GPS Reference Stations ranging from 20-50 kilometers in spacing utilizing existing facilities and existing base stations where feasible (An estimated 55-70 stations may be required). The long-term goal is to develop TURN GPS to provide statewide coverage for high accuracy GPS survey and mapping to improve the quality of geographic information system data and the productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of government services and open the GPS Network Services to Federal State, Local and Tri Partners. Current Funding • The State of Utah Legislature has appropriated from the General Fund to the Automated Geographic Reference Center for implementation and maintenance of the Statewide Global Positioning Reference Network. $500,000 for hardware, software, construction materials, and labor to implement, expand and maintain the network. • Commitment from State, County, and City Partners to enhance and share existing reference stations with an estimated value of $300,000. Strategy • Phased development • Partner with federal agencies, local government, and other states and potentially private agencies. • Leverage the current funding through these partnerships. Est., totals costs of complete network build out = $1.5 million Total Estimated Cost = $1,500,000 Provided by State of Utah = $500,000 Provided by Local Partners = $300,000 Remaining amount to complete Network = $700,000 The DTS/AGRC is requesting $700,000 to complete the Utah Reference Network Global Positioning System Dennis Goreham AGRC Manager State of Utah dgoreham@utah.gov 801-538-3163 Sean Fernandez PLS GPS Network Coordinator State of Utah sfernandez@utah.gov 801-209-9359