Kansas First Responders to get improved radio communications

The deadly flooding across the Kansas Turnpike in 2003 revealed a challenge for first responders-while coordinating relief efforts, they struggled to talk to each other due to incompatible radio systems.

State officials, including the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), the Office of Emergency Preparedness (EMS) and the Governor’s Office, have partnered to upgrade the present state-wide radio system from a conventional/trunked analog system to 800 MHz Digital Project 25 technology.

MOTOBRIDGE™, a new technology designed to connect disparate radio systems, will also be a part of the upgrade.

The $16 million upgrade (Phase I) is scheduled to be operational by July 1, 2006. The upgrade to digital technology, provided by Motorola, will boost the state’s ability to deal with disasters ranging from storms to terrorism or routine law enforcement.

“This seamless communication will give emergency workers the time they need in the early minutes of a crisis to save lives and protect property,” said Governor Sebelius.

Initially, KDOT, KHP and EMS will use the system which will eventually be made available to all public safety agencies state-wide

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