Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Gets $1.1 Million To Revamp Cranston Headquarters

CRANSTON, RI — The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) received about $1.1 million Monday to renovate its headquarters in Cranston.

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) secured $525,000 in federal funding for the project. The state also provided a matching contribution. State officials said the money will be used to upgrade and expand RIEMA's facility on New London Avenue.

"These new funds will be used to renovate the building, enhance RIEMA’s integrated technology and communications equipment, and create a dedicated Joint Information Center, so members of the media can do their part to disseminate critical information when Rhode Islanders need it most," Reed said. "This is a smart investment that gives RIEMA the opportunity to create the flexible, adaptive, and resilient EOC it needs, with sufficient space and advanced technology and equipment."

Reed said the money will be used to install new phone systems, computer networks, increased radio access, satellite communications and teleconferencing capabilities. Other renovations include sound proofing walls, enhanced lighting and more.

RIEMA's Cranston headquarters opened in 2006 and was last renovated in 2010. Reed said renovations are expected to begin this spring and should be completed within a year.