Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Cayuga County will receive nearly $1 million in funding as part of a statewide initiative to enhance emergency response and communication systems. The county is set to receive $705,292 from the State Interoperable Communications Formula Grant and an additional $213,957 through the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) Grant. The funds are part of a broader $55 million investment benefiting all 57 counties in New York and New York City.
The initiative aims to modernize public safety answering points, improve call-taking and dispatching abilities, and advance Next Generation 911 (NG911) technology. These upgrades are intended to ensure faster, more effective responses during emergencies by providing state-of-the-art technology and improved training for 911 personnel.
“Ensuring the safety of New Yorkers is my top priority,” said Governor Hochul. “A reliable emergency dispatch system is critical for getting first responders where they’re needed — fast. This funding will help counties like Cayuga upgrade technology and improve their emergency response capabilities.”
The grant programs are administered through New York’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). The State Interoperable Communications Formula Grant supports critical technology improvements, including interoperability, which allows emergency services to communicate seamlessly across agencies. The PSAP grant focuses on supporting and expanding county emergency services through modern call-handling infrastructure and NG911 advancements.
Jackie Bray, Commissioner of DHSES, emphasized the importance of communication in emergencies. “The professionals who take emergency calls are the first line of assistance,” she said. “These grants will ensure they have the tools they need to provide timely and effective service.”
Stephen J. Acquario, Executive Director of the New York State Association of Counties, also praised the initiative. “This funding is critical so that county-based 911 systems can invest in modern technology and infrastructure to ensure our residents have access to emergency services,” he said.
Both the SICG-Formula and PSAP grants support local emergency response capabilities, fostering collaboration among state and county agencies to create a more coordinated and resilient public safety network.
For more information on emergency response initiatives in New York, visit the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website at dhses.ny.gov.
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