OWEGO, N.Y. (WHCU) – Several counties in the Southern Tier and Central New York are receiving money to improve emergency communication systems.

The Interoperable Communications Grant program is designed to improve emergency communications used by local first responders. The funding provides better public safety by improving infrastructure that addresses deficiencies and boosts regional connectivity. The program also implements national interoperability channels.

Tioga County was awarded the maximum allotment of $6 million.

“Plans have been underway for years to upgrade and improve our emergency communication system across the county,” said Chair of the Tioga County Legislature Martha Sauerbrey. “However, the cost was prohibitive. This grant will allow Tioga County to move forward and purchase and install equipment needed to upgrade; we will be able to vastly improve our communication system for all the citizens of Tioga County.”

The non-competitive program, administered by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, awarded more than $62 million to 14 counties total in upstate New York regions.

Awards list by County

  • Albany – $6,000,000
  • Allegany – $6,000,000
  • Chemung – $3,584,452
  • Columbia – $4,558,183
  • Cortland – $5,000,000
  • Jefferson – $2,000,000
  • Montgomery – $810,000
  • Onondaga – $2,750,000
  • Orleans – $2,990,000
  • Putnam – $6,000,000
  • Schenectady – $6,000,000
  • Schuyler – $4,888,663
  • Steuben – $5,846,500
  • Tioga – $6,000,000