The collaborative initiative between four North Texas municipalities to fortify public safety communications took a tangible step forward with the groundbreaking ceremony of the new North Texas Emergency Communications Center (NTECC). The cities of Carrollton, Coppell, and Farmers Branch, along with the Town of Addison, are staking their resources and aspirations on this crucial infrastructure development.
Designed to consolidate public safety dispatch services, the project currently operates from a leased space in Carrollton. NTECC Executive Director Terry Goswick spearheaded a thorough space planning analysis to clear the path for this initiative. Findings pointed to a cost-effective alternative, with a new building projected to save a substantial $25 million over the next three decades in contrast to the persisting lease agreements.
According to the City of Carrollton news release, representing the collective investment of the participating cities, the facility comes with a price tag of $20 million. It stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to delivering swift and effective emergency response services to its communities. At the core of NTECC's operations is an unwavering commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology to optimize emergency response systems.
NTECC has the distinction of being the first Texas dispatch center to implement a fully digital NextGen911 system, powered by the AT&T ESInet platform, which enhances the reliability and functionality of 911 communications. Additionally, the center has implemented the Prepared 911 program, outfitting first responders with digital tools, including livestreaming capabilities, to enhance situational awareness during emergencies.
The ceremonial commencement took place at the intersection of Medical Parkway and E. Hebron Parkway in Carrollton, TX 75010, with residents, key stakeholders, and media invited to collectively mark this stride towards enhancing public safety infrastructure.
