Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced the availability of $45 million for counties to improve their emergency communications systems and upgrade technology. This state funding will enable local governments to make improvements by expanding the ability for their systems to communicate, exchange valuable data, and streamline information to enhance collaboration and assist first responders.

"In an emergency, every second counts," Governor Cuomo said. "These awards will help counties access next-generation technology and improve their ability to connect, communicate and respond to disasters and other threats to our communities."

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner John P. Melville said, "Disasters and emergencies often occur over large areas that can encompass many counties and jurisdictions and our first responders need to be able to communicate quickly and effectively to keep our communities safe. This grant funding is vital to improving public safety communications between multiple agencies, disciplines and jurisdictions by continuing to implement a regional approach to communications and ensuring that counties are equipped with the most up to date technology available."

Each county and New York City can submit applications to fund projects involving infrastructure, equipment and technology upgrades. The grant is administered by the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

This funding will be provided through the State Interoperable Communications Grant. Eligible municipalities can use this funding for a variety of functions, including expanding radio coverage by installing new equipment at towers and antenna sites, implementing Next Generation 911 technologies and standards, setting up communication channels among public safety radio systems, consolidating emergency services dispatch centers, supporting the operations of public safety dispatch centers, and deploying new technology that help counties link their systems together. Additionally, this funding will support training and exercises to promote efficient inter-regional communications, cooperation, and overall first responder readiness.

Over the past five rounds of this grant, more than $275 million has been awarded to 57 counties and New York City, while ten regional partnerships or consortiums have been formed. This represents an increase in participation by over 50 percent since the grant program was launched in 2010.

Applications must be received via email by December 8, 2016 by 5:00 P.M. Applications can be submitted electronically at Grant.Info@dhses.ny.gov. Updates and frequently asked questions will be posted online at http://www.dhses.ny.gov/oiec/grants/. Please check the website frequently for updates.

About DHSES

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and its four offices -- Counter Terrorism, Emergency Management, Fire Prevention and Control, and Interoperable and Emergency Communications -- provide leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from terrorism and other man-made and natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies.