When the City of Lakewood needed to modernize the audio and video systems in its three courtrooms, they turned to Encore Electric to design and deliver a solution built for the demands of an active judicial environment. The existing setup had started to undermine the smooth functioning of justice, with participants in remote hearings struggling to hear and see proceedings clearly, making it clear the city needed a reliable fix. Encore Electric delivered a fully upgraded system featuring new microphones, improved audio processing, updated video conferencing technology and a touch-panel control system that makes it easy for court staff to manage recordings.
From the start of the project, planning and coordination were essential as the courtrooms could not be shut down for construction. With active cases running throughout the week, Encore Electric had to carefully schedule installation work around court operations, completing the bulk of the work in tight two-to-three-day windows between sessions.
Encore Electric started by conducting a thorough investigation of the courtrooms and designing a system tailored to the city’s specific needs. Then, to ensure they could meet the tight deadlines, the Technology Solutions team built the system ahead of time at the Encore Electric Prefabrication and Tool Center. After evaluating the complexity of the city’s existing video platform, Encore Electric recommended and executed the mock-up to ensure the system was fully operational before crews arrived on site. This allowed the Encore Electric team to move swiftly and accurately once the installation began, to prevent impacts to courtroom schedules.
“This project required us to be thoughtful at every stage. Between working around an active court schedule and navigating the complexities of the city’s existing systems, there was no room for surprises. The prep work we did upfront made all the difference,” said David Embry, Technology Solutions Service Manager at Encore Electric.
Aside from the courtroom schedules, Encore Electric faced additional obstacles. There were cable pathway challenges, including some rooms lacking accessible ceiling space for cable runs and one room having its electrical closet located outside the courtroom. In addition, the city already had a video conferencing platform in place, and the new system provided by Encore Electric had to integrate seamlessly with the existing software and AV infrastructure. That integration required troubleshooting and close coordination with the manufacturer. The team adapted at every turn – even when faced with entirely new challenges they’d never seen in their long-tenured careers – completing the upgrades across all three courtrooms without disrupting a single hearing.
Beyond the team’s technical capabilities, the City was complimentary of the Encore Electric team’s professionalism, including their respect for the court facility and staff, creative and tenacious in problem-solving and consistent project follow-through.
The result speaks for itself, with audio and video quality dramatically improved and the system significantly easier to operate. Backed by a customized three-year service agreement that includes remote access for fast diagnostics and rapid onsite response when needed, the city can trust their courtroom systems will stay fully operational long after installation. That confidence has already opened new doors, with Encore Electric now evaluating technology upgrades in the high-profile Police Department’s press conference room and additional projects under consideration.
Encore Electric has been involved with multiple municipal technology projects, bringing the same commitment to quality and problem-solving that has made them a trusted partner for clients across Colorado. From installation through the full lifecycle of a system, Encore Electric supports its clients every step of the way.
Want to learn more about Encore Electric in Colorado and our full range of electrical construction and Technology Solutions services? Contact us at 303-934-1234 or click here: https://www.encoreelectric.com/