Here's another option.  You ...

Here's another option.  You may want to keep the analog meter in place and use optical AMI built into the lid of the meter box to read the meter register and transmit the data via cellular service to the utility.  The cost is about 60% of traditional AMI/AMR and implementation can be completed dramatically faster.  The older analog meters could then be replaced as needed and as part of your system-wide asset management program.  A flyer for optical AMI is included for your review.