NYS Gives $45M To Improve Emergency Communications

The state has awarded $45 million to 57 counties and New York City to enhance emergency communications across the state. The funding in the Hudson Valley is going to Columbia, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Ulster and Westchester counties.

The funds will enable local governments to expand emergency response capabilities and enhance overall public safety operations.

The 2019 Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant program supports nine regional communications consortiums, which focus on improving critical emergency communications across the state, as well as coordination between county, state and federal agencies.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said emergency communication systems are crucial to ensuring the safety of every New Yorker.

"We're always looking fo the latest technology to transmit information fast in a time of crisis," he said.

"This funding will enhance communication networks across the state and ensure that municipalities have the resources needed to improve emergency systems and operate efficiently," Cuomo said.

The following counties received funds for 2019 in the Hudson Valley:

• Columbia: $456,578
• Dutchess: $564,024
• Orange: $822,055
• Putnam: $590,058
• Rockland: $862,601
• Ulster: $563,271
• Westchester: $680,308

Each county and New York City can submit applications to fund projects involving infrastructure, equipment and technology upgrades. Eligible counties can use this funding for a variety of functions, including expanding radio coverage by installing new equipment at towers and antenna sites, implementing Next Generation 9-1-1 technologies and standards, setting up communication channels among public safety radio systems, supporting the operations of public safety dispatch centers and deploying new technologies that help counties link their systems together.

This funding also supports training and exercises to promote efficient, interregional communications, cooperation and overall first responder readiness.

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