Oakland County announces $61M radio system upgrade for first responders

Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press

Oakland County officials are launching a new radio system to improve communication for first responders.

The new P25 Radio System will allow staff to communicate across the state with their home base and other agencies in Michigan. Officials announced the development at a Southfield news conference Wednesday afternoon.

"This important milestone highlights our commitment to public safety in Oakland County," said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter.

The $61 million system by Motorola is integrated with the Michigan Public Safety Communication System. First responders will be equipped with 6,000 new radios and 20 upgraded 911 dispatch centers. Communication will be encrypted to ensure secure operations.

"This investment by Oakland County is a step forward for all of us in the county and speaking as one mayor and one community in Oakland County we're extremely pleased to have this $61 million investment for our first responders and the important work that they do every single day," said Southfield Mayor Ken Siver.

Southfield Mayor Ken Siver delivers remarks at a March 27 press conference outside Southfield City Hall announcing the rollout of a new P25 Radio System for first responders.
Southfield Mayor Ken Siver delivers remarks at a March 27 press conference outside Southfield City Hall announcing the rollout of a new P25 Radio System for first responders.

The system is financed by 911 surcharges from phone bills and a $5 million contribution from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.

First responders previously used OpenSky radio system since 2005, with gaps in communication across county lines and dead spots within Oakland County.

"There's so many layers of what makes this better and different for all of us to be able to communicate," said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.

The new radio system will allow for improved communication as Oakland County agencies prepare to assist with NFL draft security in Detroit April 25-27, officials said.

"By having the ability to hear neighboring jurisdictions and respond in real-time, officers can communicate with each other directly, providing an appropriate response and collaboration during major events," said Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Oakland County announces $61M radio system for first responders

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