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Release Date: 09/25/03 00:00:00
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 25, 2003
17 Communities Across the U.S. Will Receive Funds to Develop Demonstration Projects
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today the 17 communities that will receive a portion of $79.6 million in funds to help communities develop interoperable communications systems. The grant recipients will receive funds as part of a joint program between DHS and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to develop demonstration projects that will use equipment and technology to increase interoperability among the fire service, law enforcement, and emergency medical service communities.
"The grants made in this process are intended to uncover solutions that will guide future communications equipment funding so that all communities can meet an interoperability performance standard," said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. "Providing funds that will help bring these technologies to the light of day directly support homeland security's goal to make all of America safer."
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is overseeing the grant process for DHS, while the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) is overseeing DOJ's participation. FEMA and COPS adopted collaborative efforts for a single competitive grant program in an effort to maximize the impact of the funding available for interoperable communications equipment. In addition to the 17 communities receiving grants from FEMA, an additional 14 will receive funds from the COPS program. The maximum federal share for each award is $6 million.
"These grants will allow us to identify cutting edge technologies that exist out in the field," said DHS Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response Michael D. Brown. "Because many variables need to be addressed, we need to develop options for communities in establishing standards so that they can best meet their communications needs."
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
This page was last modified on 09/25/03 00:00:00