More than $3 million announced for EMS communication system upgrades in Tazewell County

TAZEWELL COUNTY, VA (WVNS) — More than $3 million was announced for upgrades to the EMS communication system in Tazewell County.

The $3,761,000 grant will help with communication between 911 operators, emergency callers, and first responders by switching to P25-compliant interoperable radios and repeaters that have AES encryption.

This allocation enhances communication infrastructure in Tazewell County and underscores our dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members. By investing in modern and secure communication technologies, we are taking proactive steps to strengthen our emergency response capabilities and safeguard our residents. We are grateful to Senator Warner, Senator Kaine and Congressman Griffith for their support.

Eric Young | Tazewell County Administrator

The money will go towards communication infrastructure upgrades in the county to help emergency response operations and public safety, as the communication upgrades will help with smooth and secure communication channels.

I was proud to work to secure funding for these projects across Tazewell County in this year’s government funding package. These projects will help make the communities safer by investing in infrastructure to provide needed updates to our emergency service systems.

Senator Warner

Receiving this needed grant funding will greatly enhance the communications from our 911 Center throughout all of the emergency agencies in Tazewell County.

Sheriff Brian Heiatt

The Association of Public-Safety Communication Officials (APCO) International created a set of standards represented by Project 25, also referred to as APCO-25. It helps verify compatible and smooth communication between first responders, public safety agencies, and other emergency service organizations.

Working with P25 standards is important for those who work in public safety and emergency response areas due to the accessibility of clear communication in important situations.

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