The authority managing the Blair County Convention Center has agreed to spend $138,000 to improve and expand wireless internet services inside the structure.

At a special meeting Wednesday, the authority approved a contract with Link Computer Corp., Bellwood, for the job that includes replacing internet connections dating back to when the convention center was under construction 25 years ago. The project also calls for adding 38 wireless access points throughout the convention center, thereby improving internet access and security.

Authority Chairman Matt Stuckey described the project as a way to address bottlenecks within the building.

“We’re going to try to speed up the internet around here,” Stuckey said.

The project could also be beneficial for those trying remotely to connect to events or activities at the convention center. When the authority meets, its members sometimes have difficulty establishing or maintaining internet connections from locations outside the convention center.

Executive Director Tom Schilling said Wednesday that four companies submitted proposals in response to the convention center’s advertisement, with Link offering the lowest rate for what’s referred to as the Meraki Wireless & Switch Implementation project, with seven years of licensing.

“It’s seven years of service so if anything goes wrong, they’re going to be there to help us,” Schilling said.

Solicitor Dave Andrews advised the authority that he reviewed the proposed contract and suggested changes, which Link approved.

Schilling also told the authority that it could pay for the project with money from its capital reserve account or rely on a five-year loan at 5.49% interest. To avoid the interest expense, the authority agreed that the bill should be paid with capital reserve funds.

The project, which is expected to commence soon, shouldn’t create any issues with day-to-day operations, Schilling said.

But because the project is expected to move forward in phases, authority members said it could take up to three months.

Once finished, Schilling said he’ll be in a position to propose some additional improvements associated with the wireless upgrades.

Earlier this year, the convention center wrapped up improvements and upgrades to its lighting system that also dated back to when the facility opened in May 2001. The cost of that contract, at $356,672, was expected to be offset by rebates and reduced electric bills.

Mirror Staff Writer Kay Stephens is at 814-946-7456.