For Immediate Release
September 9, 2005
CONTACT: Gilbert Moore
(202) 616-1728
COPS OFFICE AWARDS $92.7M TO HELP FIRST RESPONDERS COMMUNICATE
The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) today awarded $92.7 million to 26 law
enforcement agencies to develop interoperable communications networks that enable emergency service personnel to communicate
directly during crises. The grants will offset the cost of purchasing voice and data communications equipment, enhancing
communications infrastructures, and project management.
The grants were awarded under COPS Interoperable Communications Technology Grant program, which increases the number of
interoperable communications systems used nationally by law enforcement, fire service, and emergency medical service agencies
in the same metropolitan area. Each city is required to provide a 25 percent match of the federal funds, up to a maximum of
$6 million.
"The ability for emergency service personnel to communicate and share information during a crisis is an essential component
of a comprehensive public safety plan,” said COPS Director Carl R. Peed. “Emergencies do not limit themselves to jurisdictional
boundaries. When an incident occurs, first responders must be able to coordinate all available resources, and the first step in
that process is the ability to communicate and share information in real-time."
To ensure the greatest possible public benefit, COPS invited the primary jurisdiction from the three largest Metropolitan
Statistical Areas (MSA) in each state and territory, and the 50 largest MSAs in the country to apply for grants. After
eliminating duplications from these two categories and MSAs that have previously received grants, there were 138 prospective
applicants. Of this pool, 91 jurisdictions applied and 26 are being awarded grants. Including the grants announced today,
COPS has awarded more than $242 million to 63 communities to improve their interoperable communications systems.
For additional information about COPS Interoperable Communications Technology Grant program, visit the
COPS website.
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