Governor's Column by Dave Heineman

Oct. 2, 2009

Activation of New Statewide Radio Network Begins Dear Fellow Nebraskans: Recently, I had the privilege of activating the first segment of Nebraska’s new statewide radio network during an event held at Scotts Bluff National Monument. The network uses radio towers and upgraded communications equipment at the Nebraska State Patrol’s Troop E dispatch center, along with radios installed in first responder vehicles to provide an enhanced radio network for the state’s public safety officials in the Nebraska Panhandle.

The statewide network is being activated in four segments over the next year. When complete, it will allow public safety personnel from local, state and federal agencies to communicate, with each other.

This is a major milestone for Nebraska and I want to congratulate everyone involved on their work to make this first part of the network a reality. Achieving interoperable communication is a top priority when it comes to emergency preparedness and response and we are well on our way.

The radios and communications equipment installed in Nebraska State Patrol vehicles are state of the art and a significant upgrade from equipment that in some cases was from the 1940’s. Troopers attending the launch talked about the difference the new equipment made, providing better coverage and enabling a much clearer exchange of information.

Activating the first stage of this network in the western Nebraska meant providing a more comprehensive communications system that would cover the most rugged terrain in Nebraska. The improved coverage of this network replaces a decades old system that couldn’t reach into the canyons and rock formations in many parts of the Panhandle.

Launching the network at Scotts Bluff National Monument was significant because it is one of the national monument sites in Nebraska managed by the National Park Service, which is a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior and a partner on the network project.

The completed network will include a partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and the Nebraska Departments of Agriculture, Correctional Services and Roads. Other partners include the Office of the Chief Information Officer, which provides support for the statewide radio network, and Nebraska Educational Telecommunications, which provided access to radio towers across the state.

The network will also include the utility crews of the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD). While the state was working to develop a dynamic, sustainable way for first responders and state officials to communicate, NPPD was considering options for upgrading its own radio network. Rather than build two separate radio systems, the state and NPPD agreed to share the costs, saving taxpayers and NPPD ratepayers at least $20 million.

“The state radio network will serve as a backbone that allows the eight regional communications networks to connect to the state network and provide interoperability for local and county law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel, and county emergency management.”

Clear communication is an essential element of emergency response. When complete, this project will ensure that first responders from border to border can talk to one another. It will also enhance safety for first responders and improve efficiency in responding to emergencies and every day events.

The level of coordination between state agencies combined with new technology is helping Nebraska take a major step forward in improving public safety. This effort is a perfect example of the collaboration that makes Nebraska a national leader in emergency preparedness. It is Nebraska at its best.