Senator Nozzolio Announces $75 Million Statewide Emergency Communications Grant Program

SENECA AND CAYUGA COUNTIES ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING

Senator Mike Nozzolio today announced that $75 million in New York State grant funding will be available through Statewide Interoperability Communications Grants (SICG) to help counties strengthen and improve their emergency communications systems. 

“These grants provide essential funding for enhancing emergency communications systems across the State, and helps reduce the burden on local taxpayers who would otherwise pay for these upgrades.  Our brave volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel represent the best our local communities have to offer and serve as the first line of response when disaster strikes, and we must do everything possible to give them the tools they need to effectively respond to emergencies,” said Senator Mike Nozzolio.

County Public Safety Organizations who have not previously received SICG awards, including Seneca and Cayuga Counties, may apply for up to $6 million in funding through the SICG program to facilitate the development, consolidation, and/or improved operation of public safety communications to support and enhance emergency communication for first responders.

“Our brave firefighters, police officers, and first responders risk their lives and well being every time they respond to a call for help and these important grants will help reduce response times and ensure effective communication in emergency situations.  As State Senator, I will continue my aggressive efforts to reduce the burden on local taxpayers and secure funding for programs that protect public safety,” concluded Senator Mike Nozzolio.

Over the last two years Wayne, Ontario, Tompkins, and Monroe Counties have used this program to upgrade their emergency communications systems.  This program has provided nearly $13 million in funding to upgrade emergency communication systems in the counties that Senator Nozzolio represents.

The SICG program is a multi-year competitive grant that is focused on achieving greater coordination between counties and first response agencies. Similar to previous SICG grant funding, these SICG applications must pertain to response-level emergency communications across multiple jurisdictions and agencies, including State agencies, and must utilize, standards-based technologies and equipment.

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