Governor Cuomo Announces Statewide Emergency Communications Grant Program

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today that $75 million in state grant funds will be available to Oneida and Herkimer counties through Statewide Interoperability Communications Grants (SICG).

The grants will help communities improve emergency communications systems by expanding communication functions between neighboring counties and first responders.

So far $122 million has been awarded across the state and 21 other counties are eligible now.

"Our experience over the last few years has taught us that the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently on all levels of government is crucial for preparing and responding to an emergency," Governor Cuomo said. "These grants provide essential funding for enhancing emergency communications systems across the state, and they are an important investment in our local governments."

The SICG progam program is funded by the Statewide Public Safety Communications Account (cellular surcharge revenue).