Corning nets state grant for 'vital' police communication upgrades. How money will be used

Aging equipment at the Corning City Police Department will soon be replaced thanks to a recently awarded state grant.

Corning City Manager Mark Ryckman said the city has received a substantial technology grant from the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services, aimed at enhancing public safety communications.

“This is much needed funding,” Ryckman said. “The radio system in the police department is aging and we have been experiencing some reliability issues and higher maintenance.”

Ryckman congratulated Corning Police Chief Kenzie Spaulding for finding an appropriate funding source and developing a competitive application to secure the $196,000 technology grant.

The current LMR system, which has been in service for more than a decade, is essential for efficient and reliable communication among emergency services, Ryckman said. However, due to its age, the system requires urgent upgrades to continue meeting the high standards required.

“This funding is vital for our department to maintain the highest level of service for the citizens of Corning,” Spaulding said. “Upgrading our communication equipment will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also ensure the safety of our officers and the community we serve.”

The Corning City Police Department will acquire a new base station radio, mobile radios for police vehicles, and portability radios for all officers through the grant.

This upgrade will significantly improve the quality and reliability of communications, ensuring that Corning police officers have the best tools at their disposal to respond to emergencies and keep the community safe, the city manager said.

Ryckman said the exact timeline of when the new equipment will enter service is currently unknown.