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(The Center Square) – King County and its 11 cities are launching a new emergency radio network to update the region’s 911 systems from traditional analog radio systems.
The project stems from a $273 million property tax levy cap increase approved by voters in 2015. Total funding was allocated to capital expenditures of $189 million, non-capital expenditures of $19 million, contingency funds of $38 million and debt financing of $27 million.
The levy rate was set at 7 cents per $1,000 of assessed value for nine years through 2024. The average homeowner in King County was paying about $54 a year in property taxes on past-due levies.
The project was ultimately completed with a surplus of $6.5 million, according to King County.
The new digital Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network will allow first responders such as police officers and firefighters to better communicate and dispatch emergency services and other government services throughout the county.
The 11 cities participating in the new radio network include Auburn, Bellevue, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Redmond, Renton, Seattle and Tukwila.
The system update included five projects. The goal is to convert wireless equipment countywide from analog to digital systems. Created 61 new radio sites. Equipment installed at 19 distribution centers. Coordinating the migration of antenna systems for approximately 800 buildings. We will also carry out public relations activities within the county regarding the system changes.
“Functional enhancement” [Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network] “Radio is a valuable improvement to the resources at our disposal and underscores our commitment to enhancing public safety on all fronts,” King County Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall said in a news release. Stated. “These state-of-the-art tools allow us to enhance our services to our communities and ensure quick and effective communication for the safety and well-being of everyone.”
More than 19,000 new radios for emergency communications were distributed to King County police, fire, and other government users who transitioned to the new system.
“This upgrade to our 20-year-old wireless system will give emergency responders throughout Seattle and King County the tools they need to protect their communities and work together effectively,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. Now we can definitely get it.”
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