Communication Projects Funded By Dhs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)has announced that 17 communities will receive a portion of $79.6 million in funds to help develop interoperable communications systems.
The grant recipients will receive funds as part of a joint program between DHS and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to develop demonstration projects that will use equipment and technology to increase interoperability among the fire service, law enforcement, and emergency medical service communities.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is overseeing the grant process for DHS, while the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) is overseeing DOJ’s participation. FEMA and COPS adopted collaborative efforts for a single competitive grant program in an effort to maximize the impact of the funding available for interoperable communications equipment.
In addition to the 17 communities receiving grants from FEMA, an additional 14 will receive funds from the COPS program. The maximum federal share for each award is $6 million.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
