In the Empire State, first responders are looking at a significant boost in emergency communications capabilities that are crucial, for those moments when every second counts. Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a substantial investment towards this end, amounting to over $38 million in state funding aimed at 17 counties and New York City. According to a statement obtained by the Governor’s Office, this funding is set to enhance the infrastructure that keeps our emergency services talking - whether they’re fighting flames or rushing to medical emergencies.
The Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant program, or SICG, is at the heart of this initiative. It's intended to shore up communications during disaster scenarios, repairing and constructing the radio towers that stand as sentinels of safety for the public. "Saving a life can come down to one call, and our first responders need to have the most reliable emergency communications systems to help their fellow New Yorkers during their most critical moments," Governor Hochul emphasized, signaling a clear dedication to public safety, as per the Governor’s Office.
Administered by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the Combined 2024 & 2025 Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant (SICG) Targeted Grant Program will focus on plugging those existing gaps in the comms network. All counties within New York State, along with New York City, had the opportunity to secure funding aimed at not only equipping them with better hardware but also promoting a more unified response strategy across the jurisdictions.
Jackie Bray, Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, underscored the importance of these awards, saying, “These awards play a critical role in supporting our local responders by modernizing existing emergency communications systems and promoting further interoperability between our counties and their partners.” It’s not just about building new towers. The grant offers a chance to refine how these systems work in unison, crucially when it’s all hands on deck, as noted by the Governor’s Office.
For locals eager to keep informed about emergencies, the state encourages enrolling in real-time alert services. By texting your county or borough of residence to 333111, you can gain access to immediate updates right on your personal devices. Additional information about signing up for these alerts can be found on the DHSES website.
