"Today, Virginia has been recognized for our deep commitment and steady progress toward improving the communication networks used by our first responders," Governor Warner said. "In a business where seconds count, and in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, it is a commitment that all Virginians can agree is essential to the safety of the Commonwealth."
The Lynchburg MSA will receive $1,393,894 and the Roanoke MSA will receive $866,570 to offset the cost of purchasing voice and data communications equipment, enhancing communications infrastructures, and project management. A total of $92.7 million was awarded to 26 law enforcement agencies across the nation. Each city is required to provide a 25 percent match of the federal funds.
The grants were awarded under COPS Interoperable Communications Technology Grant program, which increases in the number of interoperable communications systems used nationally by law enforcement, fire service, and emergency medical service agencies in the same metropolitan area.
"I applaud the COPS grant to both Lynchburg and Roanoke MSA's," said Charlottesville Fire Chief Charles Werner. This success is a direct result of the Governor's leadership commitment to interoperability through the support of the State Interoperability Executive Committee and the development of a Statewide Interoperability Strategic Plan."
