Senator Murphy Announces More Than $1.6 Million to Improve Emergency Communications in the Hudson Valley

Albany, NY - Senator Terrence Murphy has announced today that Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties will receive $1,693,373 in funds to upgrade critical technology and improve emergency communications systems within the 40th Senate District. Westchester County will receive $608,545; Putnam County was awarded $454,708 and Dutchess County will get $630,120.
 
"When a first responder answers a call every second counts. A quick response can save lives," said Senator Murphy. "These funds will ensure our emergency personnel have the best state-of-the-art equipment that can maximize their preparedness and enhance their efficiency."
 
Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell was pleased to learn of the award. "Thank you to Governor Cuomo for helping the counties provide the resources needed for our first responders to better serve our communities.  I also appreciate Sen. Murphy's continued advocacy for our law enforcement, fire departments and EMS agencies. These funds will assist us in expanding our radio coverage so there are fewer 'dead zones' in the county."
 
The funding is part of $55 million in state grants awarded to counties and the City of New York by Governor Andrew Cuomo. It will enable local governments to expand their ability to communicate, exchange valuable data, and streamline information through their systems to enhance collaboration and assist first responders.
 
The State Interoperable Communications Grant contributed $45 million to local governments, and the Public Safety Answering Points Operations Grant contributed an additional $10 million to localities for a total of $55 million. The State Interoperable Communications Grant, administered by the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, has awarded more than $300 million in six rounds to 57 counties and New York City. 
 
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 911 technologies and standards, setting up communication channels among public safety radio systems, consolidating emergency services dispatch centers, supporting the operations of public safety dispatch centers, and deploying new technology that help counties link their systems together. Additionally, this funding will support training and exercises to promote efficient inter-regional communications, cooperation, and overall first responder readiness.