Niagara and Orleans counties are among seven upstate New York counties awarded a total of $32 million to improve emergency communications.
"In emergency situations, it's critical that first responders have the resources they need to quickly and efficiently respond to calls for help," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo in making the announcement. "This funding will allow counties to continue to upgrade and improve their emergency communications systems and in the process create a stronger, safer New York for all."
There are a range of projects slated for the funding.
Niagara County will receive $6 million to build several new communications towers and update the connectivity between those towers. The county will also add new radio channels to strengthen communications between multiple jurisdictions and agencies.
Orleans County will receive nearly $5.9 million to improve their radio system by adding new communications towers, technology to connect separate radio systems and new radio channels to strengthen communications between multiple jurisdictions and agencies.
Other counties to receive $2 million-$6 million grants each are Clinton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson and Schenectady.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
