Narrowbanding means changes to public safety radio communications

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered changes to public safety radio operations across the state. By January 1, 2013, all radios operating in the Public Safety license pool must begin to operate on narrow-band frequencies. This means that local communities must take immediate action to ensure continued radio communications and avoid federal fines.

For more information about the new rules, read our letter to local communities, and check out our "Steps You Should Take Today" document.

$3.2 Million available to help local, county and tribal governments implement WISCOM
Concept Papers Now Being Accepted to Identify Interested Agencies / Provide Local Engineering Studies

Local, county and tribal units of government are encouraged to submit concept papers regarding agency readiness and interest in replacing existing communications systems with a WISCOM system for daily operations. Agencies selected through this process will receive technical assistance from the State’s engineering consultant in developing local engineering studies and assessing implementation costs. Following the completion of local studies, participating agencies may qualify for a share of up to $3.2 million in interoperable equipment grants. Concept papers must be received on or before October 1, 2010.

WISCOM (Wisconsin Interoperable System for Communications) is a shared statewide system being implemented to improve first responder radio communications during major disasters or large-scale incidents. It will support up to four simultaneous conversation paths during an incident and allow responders from any area of the state to assist other agencies and communities without loss of communication capability.

For more information about this opportunity, read the Call for Concept Papers announcement or contact David Spenner at (608) 513-2845 Jennifer Lord at (608) 264-7883.