How the AMI Upgrade Works
A closer look at the technology, the process, and the phased rollout bringing smarter water service to every address in St. Petersburg.
What Is Advanced Metering Infrastructure?
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a fully integrated system of smart meters, communication networks, and data management software. Unlike traditional meters that store usage data locally until a technician reads them, AMI meters transmit consumption data wirelessly — automatically, continuously, and securely.
The result is a two-way flow of information between the utility and the meter. Our operations team gains real-time visibility into the entire distribution system, while customers gain access to detailed usage data through an online portal.
How the System Works
Smart Meter
The new AMI meter measures water flow with high precision and stores usage data in its onboard memory. A low-power wireless module transmits readings at regular intervals.
Communication Network
Meter transmissions are collected by a citywide fixed-base network of receivers. Data travels securely from the meter to our collection infrastructure without requiring a technician visit.
Data Management System
Collected readings flow into our Meter Data Management System (MDMS), which validates data, flags anomalies, and makes usage information available for billing and analysis.
Customer Portal
Customers can log in to view their own hourly and daily usage data, set leak alerts, and track consumption trends — putting water intelligence directly in your hands.
Project Timeline
The AMI upgrade is being deployed in phases across St. Petersburg to minimize disruption and ensure quality at every step.
Pilot Program
A targeted pilot deployment in select neighborhoods to validate equipment, communication infrastructure, and data systems before full-scale rollout.
North District Rollout
Full deployment across the northern districts of St. Petersburg, including residential and commercial accounts. Crews are actively replacing meters in this zone.
Central & South Districts
Expansion into the central and southern districts. Customers in these areas will receive advance notice letters approximately 30 days before crews arrive.
Citywide Completion
Final phase covering remaining accounts, including large commercial meters, irrigation-only accounts, and any properties requiring special coordination.
Your Meter Replacement, Step by Step
We've designed the replacement process to be as simple and non-disruptive as possible.
Advance Notice Letter
You will receive a letter by mail approximately 30 days before our crews are scheduled in your neighborhood. The letter includes the timeframe, what to expect, and a contact number.
Crew Arrival
Our uniformed technicians will arrive during the scheduled window. They carry City identification and will knock if they need to notify you of anything before beginning work.
Brief Water Interruption
Water service will be shut off for approximately 15 minutes while the old meter is removed and the new AMI meter is installed and tested.
Service Restored
Once the new meter is confirmed operational, water service is restored. Our technician will leave a door hanger confirming the work is complete.
Portal Access
Within one billing cycle, your account will be linked to the customer portal where you can view your usage data, set alerts, and monitor your water consumption.
Questions About Your Meter Replacement?
Our team is here to help. Reach out by phone or email and we'll get back to you promptly.