Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the availability of $20 million to improve the State's emergency communications systems through the State Interoperable Communications Grant Targeted program, which reimburses eligible counties across the state for various activities associated with emergency communication systems. This year's grant funding objective aims to improve the overall status of land mobile radio interoperability for public safety agencies within New York, as well as its border states.
"In an emergency, every second counts," Governor Hochul said. "This grant funding will help ensure our communities across the state have the modern communication tools they need to act quickly and effectively to protect New Yorkers and save lives."
New York State Division 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."
A total of $20 million in State funding is available for eligible counties to support the core objectives of program funding, including improving redundancy and resiliency of public safety radio systems, expanding coverage and frequency band capabilities of National Interoperability Channels, and developing or enhancing shared radio and other systems.
Applications are open and the deadline for the SICG-Targeted program is September 8, 2023.
For more information, please visit the DHSES Grants web page.
Governor Hochul previously announced additional investments and measures to improve Statewide emergency response services from the FY 2024 Budget, including:
- $105 million to upgrade the State Emergency Operations Center, which serves as the State's centralized location for coordination of all major emergency preparedness and response activities.
- $25 million to provide capital grants to volunteer fire departments for construction, renovation, or purchase of facilities and equipment.
- $20 million to assist counties in transitioning to a Next Generation 911 network that would connect to Public Service Answering Points (PSAP) in each county.
- $10 million to provide a State-funded stipend to volunteer firefighters who complete foundational training.
- $45 million in SICG-Formula grant funding is available to eligible counties and New York City.
- $10 million in grants to eligible applicants in support of operations and improvements of PSAPs. The State provides reimbursement for operating expenses, including personnel costs.