The Client:

Indiana University South Bend (IUSB)

The Challenge: 

The IUSB project began when Vermillion Systems submitted a bid to Sterling Construction, a local general contractor, for the installation of various low-voltage products and services. After meeting with Sterling, Vermillion found that the contractor was also looking for a partner to help undertake a project that was much more substantial. Sterling needed someone to supply and install the electronic cabling—the backbone of the electronic communications system—from the IUSB main campus, across the St. Joseph River to the student-housing complex.

The Solution:

Realizing the opportunity to work on such a unique and monumental project, Vermillion submitted and successfully won the contract bid. Working with Sterling Construction, Vermillion provided and installed more than 10,000 linear feet of underground conduit along with fiber-optic trunk lines and copper backbone cabling to support the fire alarm, telephone systems, network infrastructure and access-control systems. The conduit and cabling connect the eight student housing buildings to the centrally located Community Building. Additionally, Vermillion was tasked with installing emergency telephones in each building and in strategic areas around the new development.

Result:

This project was a local success story, as it allowed students to live on campus at IUSB for the first time in the school’s history. Located on the south bank of the St. Joseph River on a 27-acre parcel, this modern complex is linked to the campus via pedestrian bridge. The $20.3 million housing project features a mix of one-, two-, and four-bedroom apartments that accommodates up to 400 students.

The installation of this system gives IUSB a modern, expandable communications infrastructure that serves all of the needs of the student complex. By proving the ability to tackle larger-scale projects, meet strict deadlines and stay within the budget, Vermillion Systems have established itself as St. Joseph County’s fastest-growing security integrator.