News
The Ultimate Urban Circulator: Powering Urban Transformation
Last year, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) embarked on a groundbreaking venture to redefine urban mobility with the Ultimate Urban Circulator Program (U2C). This initiative aims to transform downtown Jacksonville by modernizing the Automated Skyway Express and integrating the use of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) to extend service to surrounding neighborhoods. The U2C project will be executed in three program phases: The Bay Street Innovation Corridor, Skyway Conversion, and Neighborhood Expansions.
As part of the Balfour Beatty Vision 2 Reality (V2R) team, we played a crucial role in developing the Bay Street Innovation Corridor and the Autonomous Innovation Center (AIC). Our solutions included comprehensive electrical infrastructure, low-voltage systems integration, underground conduit, cabling, camera installations, interactive kiosks, and roadway infrastructure. For the AIC, we handled electrical installation, EV charging, microgrid installation, 129 solar panels, low voltage, security, audio-visual, and fire alarm systems.
Innovative Techniques and Sustainability
The U2C project set new standards in urban transportation through the implementation of cutting edge technology and sustainable practices. Noteworthy innovations included:
Microgrid and Rooftop Solar Installation: Miller Electric Company spearheaded the installation of Jacksonville’s first microgrid, integrating solar panels and a battery energy storage solution to provide efficient, sustainable energy. This system facilitates peak shaving by storing excess energy generated by the rooftop solar array and shifting the grid power usage to off-peak hours. This cost saving measure is not only eco friendly but it eliminates the need for a noisy, polluting standby generator should the downtown power grid go dark. The microgrid also helps the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) by reducing or eliminating the building load during peak power periods and moving that demand to offpeak hours.
Private 5G Wireless Network: Installation of a fully-private 5G wireless network supports the operations of the new fully autonomous shuttles. 5G connectivity provides the highest bandwidth and lowest latency communication between the AVs and the control center. This turnkey solution will enable the vehicles to navigate the streets alongside other vehicle traffic and will ensure the bandwidth needed is available to stream real-time video surveillance and two-way audio and video communications between passengers and employees. The network architecture is also the most cybersecure communication option since the network is private and does not share equipment with the public macro network.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure: The project included the deployment of EV chargers, with one Level 3 charger and fourteen Level 2 chargers, alongside the introduction of fourteen EV shuttles, aligning with sustainable transport goals. In combination with the rooftop solar array, the vehicles are making use of the sustainable energy source.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Prefabrication (AIC): These innovative methods enhanced productivity and accuracy, reducing on-site construction time and minimizing errors.
A look inside the AIC center
Powering the Jacksonville Community
Beyond technical achievements, the U2C project represents a significant investment in Jacksonville’s future, enhancing connectivity and paving the way for urban revitalization. The project’s successful execution stands as a testament to effective teamwork and commitment to progress, positioning Jacksonville as a frontrunner in modernized urban transit systems.