ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — More than $32 million in grants has been awarded to seven upstate New York counties to improve emergency communications.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo says the funding will help counties upgrade emergency communications systems so first responders can quickly and efficiently respond to calls for help.

Projects range from the construction of new radio towers to updating existing infrastructure and adding new radio channels to strengthen communications between multiple jurisdictions and agencies.

The grants, ranging from $2 million to $6 million, are going to Clinton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Niagara, Orleans and Schenectady counties.

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