Gateway Services Community Development District has officially awarded the full deployment of its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Meter Replacement Project to Pedal Valves, Inc.
This District-wide initiative marks the next phase in modernizing the District’s utility system and follows closely behind the recently completed Meter Box Replacement Project, which was performed in anticipation of this upgrade. With meter boxes now in place, the District is moving forward with the installation of new, advanced meters across all residential and commercial accounts.

Project Overview

Beginning in June 2026, Pedal Valves, Inc. will install approximately 9,000 new meters throughout the District. These meters will utilize AMI technology, allowing readings to be collected through a secure cellular network. The project is expected to be completed within approximately five (5) months.

This upgrade will:

  • Replace aging meters that have exceeded their useful life
  • Improve billing accuracy and eliminate estimated reads
  • Provide enhanced system monitoring and water usage tracking
  • Support the District’s long-term efficiency and conservation goals

AMI Upgrade Process

Gateway Services Community Development District is implementing its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) program through a phased approach to ensure reliability, efficiency, and minimal disruption to residents.

  • Phase 1: Meter Box Replacement Pilot (Completed)
    • The District began with a targeted pilot program in select homes and communities to evaluate meter box replacement methods and identify areas with the greatest need. This phase helped establish standards for full deployment.
  • Phase 2: Meter Replacement Pilot (Completed)
    • Following the meter box pilot, the District conducted a meter pilot program to test various AMI meter technologies and systems. This phase ensured the selected equipment performs effectively within the District’s unique operating environment.
  • Phase 3: Meter Box Replacement – Full Deployment (Ongoing)
    • The District is currently completing the full deployment of meter box replacements across all communities. This work was performed in anticipation of the AMI meter upgrade and ensures each property is properly prepared for installation.
  • Phase 4: Meter Replacement – Full Deployment (Beginning June 2026)
    • Beginning in June 2026, the District will initiate full deployment of AMI meters District-wide. Customers will receive advance notification prior to installation.

Communities by Phase Map

The tentative schedule for the upcoming phases will be updated once more information is available regarding the group commencement of work. Please check back for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need to be home during the meter replacement?
No. Since the meter box is located outside, within the utility easement, you will not need to be home for the replacement work. The contractor will attempt to notify you prior to beginning work. If no one answers and no water is actively running, the installation will proceed.

When will my meter be replaced?
An exact installation date cannot be provided. Work is performed in phases throughout the District. If your meter has not yet been replaced, please be assured your property is included in the schedule and crews will return if needed to complete the work.

How will I know once my meter has been replaced?
A door hanger will be left at your property indicating the work has been completed, including the date of service and property address.

What is the purpose of the project?
This project is part of the District’s long-term infrastructure improvement plan. It replaces aging meters with modern Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology to improve accuracy, efficiency, and system monitoring across the District.

Who is performing the work?
The District has contracted Pedal Valves, Inc. to complete the full deployment of meter installations.

How long will installation take at my property?
Installation typically takes approximately 30 minutes per property.

Will my water be turned off during installation?
Yes. Water service will be temporarily interrupted during installation. Afterward, the contractor may perform a system flush using an outdoor spigot, if available.

Will the contractor need access inside my home?
No. All work is performed externally at the meter location. If a property has a rare indoor meter, the District will coordinate directly with the customer.

What if I have landscaping or hardscaping around my meter box?
A minimum of three (3) feet of clearance is required around all utility assets. Please remove any landscaping, plants, or structures that may obstruct access. Any remaining obstructions within this area may be removed to complete the work.

Can I opt out of the AMI meter replacement program?
No. This is a District-wide infrastructure upgrade required for all customers, including residential, commercial, and master-metered properties.

Is this upgrade for both irrigation and potable water?
Yes, both irrigation and potable water meters are included in the project.

How is the project funded?

The pilot phase is being self-funded by the District using capital reserves. Full deployment of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system will be funded through a low-interest financing through the State Revolving Fund Loan. As a result, these costs are covered in your utility bill through rates, charges and fees, not non-ad valorem assessments.

What are the benefits of updating Cellular AMI meters?
AMI meters offer accurate meter readings and allow for leak detection, high usage alerts, and improved billing transparency. The District’s current AMI meter system is antiquated and inoperable. This transition eliminates the need for manual meter readings and helps identify infrastructure issues more quickly. Notifications can be set for high usage, low usage, no usage, leak detection and other identifiers as part of the new system.

How will the new meters help detect leaks or high usage?
AMI meters collect water usage data at frequent intervals, allowing the District to identify unusual usage patterns such as leaks. Future system enhancements will allow customers to receive alerts and monitor usage more directly.

Will I be able to see my water usage online?
Usage reporting will remain the same initially. Additional updates, including potential customer portal enhancements, will be provided as the system is fully implemented.

Will my water bill change?
Your bill may reflect more accurate readings following installation. No immediate changes to billing format are expected during initial deployment.

How is my usage data protected?
AMI meters use secure, encrypted communication through a private network to transmit usage data. This data is not shared and is protected in line with industry standards.

Are AMI meters safe?
Yes. AMI meters emit low-level radio frequency similar to common devices such as cell phones, baby monitors, microwaves, WiFi routers, and garage door openers. They are safe for use in residential environments.

What should I do if I think my new meter isn’t working properly?
If you experience any issues such as leaks, low pressure, or concerns with your meter, please contact the District. For a streamlined process and to ensure residents receive accurate information, please direct all questions regarding this project to the District via phone (239) 561-1313 (option 2) or online at gatewaydistrict.org/rfa. 

For information about ongoing District projects, visit gatewaydistrict.org/districtprojects