Kentucky Gov. Announces $1.3 Million for First Responder Communications Equipment

Last week, at Owensboro City Hall, Governor Ernie Fletcher announced over $1.3 million in homeland security preparedness funding for first responder communication infrastructure and equipment.

"Communication is critical in the event of an emergency," said Governor Fletcher. "This homeland security preparedness funding will ensure that first responders will have the equipment they need."

The $1.3 million grant homeland security grant, which will be administered by the City of Owensboro, will go to install infrastructure, such as communications towers and base stations, for mobile data communications among all first responders. The grant will also be used for the purchase of mobile data computers for installation in law enforcement cruisers. This project will be spread out over a seven-county area which includes Daviess, Union, Muhlenberg, Webster, McLean, Ohio and Hancock Counties.

Also, a $50,000 homeland security grant was announced to provide funding for the region's Hazardous Materials (HazMat) team. This will provide the team with search and rescue equipment necessary in the event of a collapsed building.