Grants are available to eligible counties to improve land mobile radio interoperability for public safety agencies.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced $20 million to improve the state’s emergency communications system through the State Interoperable Communications Grant Targeted Program, which provides compensation to eligible counties across the state for a variety of emergency communications system-related activities. This year’s grant aims to improve the overall state of land mobile radio interoperability among public safety agencies in New York and its border states.
“In an emergency, every second counts” Governor Hocher said. “This grant will help ensure our communities across the state have the modern communications tools they need to act quickly and effectively to protect New Yorkers and save lives.”
New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said:“Communications are the backbone of emergency response, and this funding will improve our public safety equipment across the board. Counties can apply for this funding to enhance their existing communications systems.”
Eligible counties receive a total of $20 million in state funding to support core program funding goals, including improving the redundancy and resiliency of public safety radio systems, expanding the coverage and frequency band capabilities of the National Interoperability Channels, and developing or enhancing shared radio and other systems.
Applications for the SICG-Targeted program are now open until September 8, 2023.
For more information, visit DHSES Grants Web page.
Governor Hochul previously announced additional investments and measures in the FY 2024 Budget to improve emergency response services across the state, including:
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$105 million to upgrade the State Emergency Operations Center, the centralized location where the State coordinates all major emergency preparedness and response activities. -
$25 million to provide funding grants to volunteer fire departments to build, renovate or purchase facilities and equipment. -
$20 million to assist counties transition to a next-generation 911 network that will connect to each county’s Public Service Answering Point (PSAP). -
$10 million for state-funded stipends for volunteer firefighters who complete basic training. -
$45 million in SICG-Formula grant funding is available to eligible counties and New York City. -
A $10 million grant to eligible applicants to support the operation and improvement of the PSAP. The state reimburses operating expenses, including personnel costs.
