Transportation

Valley Alarm and Pelco Secure Two L.A. Harbor Bridges In Wake of September 11 Attacks
by Denise S. Dieser, Marketing Communications Writer, ddieser@pelco.com

Robert L. Michel, President of Valley Alarm in Van Nuys, California, and a Pelco Systems Integrator for over 20 years, said that his company chose Pelco for this very high-profile installation because of its comprehensive product line and service.

"Pelco products are high quality and reliable, and you provide superior technical and applications support. We also knew that no matter what eventuality we encountered, that Pelco would have a product that would fit our needs."

Michel said that the Pelco product line is wide enough to cover nearly any situation they might encounter and that compatibility between different components is assured. Immediate product availability was also an important consideration, he said.

"We were able to exchange products on a moment’s notice when changes to the original system configuration were implemented. Pelco was very helpful in this regard."

The Bridges

Because of the events of September 11 and several terrorist threats since, a greater emphasis has been placed on securing vital bridges across the United States. In the Los Angeles area there was an especially urgent concern with two bridges in particular – the Los Angeles Port’s Vincent Thomas Bridge, also known as "San Pedro’s Golden Gate," and the Commodore Schuyler F. Heim Draw Bridge in Long Beach – because they are the main auto thoroughfares leading to the busiest port in the country.

Already having a proven history with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Michel and his company began preparing for this installation even before they officially received the contract.

"I spent a lot of hours walking that bridge making sure I got all the information," said Michel. It took over two weeks to gather all information needed to prepare their bid.

On the Front Lines

After a week of negotiations, Michel signed the contract and Valley Alarm began its prep work. When it was time for the on-site work to actually begin, it put Michel in a position that he had not been in for several years – on the front lines.

"It was the first time I had worked on a job site in five years, but because of the significance of the work, I felt I had to be involved," said Michel. "I hadn’t so much as turned a screwdriver on a job during that time, so it was fun to get back out there again."

Valley Alarm’s Commitment to Quality

Valley Alarm is a locally owned and operated company serving the greater Los Angeles area. It designs, installs, services, and monitors intrusion alarm, fire alarm, access control, communications, and video surveillance systems. Founded in 1981,Valley Alarm has experienced continuous growth by employing the latest technologies, guaranteeing professional installations and by having a passionate focus on customer care.

"We are 100 percent satisfied with Pelco products, and we will continue to depend on them as part of our commitment to quality and long-term growth," said Michel.

Another great match with Pelco’s commitment to excellence.