Interesting possibility.
How many of those are internet based? .....How many of those operated through major power losses that were greater than a week?... lost ALL local public safety communications ...... hardened structures and microwave backbone.....
I am sure we could build another statewide system, but I doubt is would serve the State of Florida as well
Colorado Connection (15 repeaters plus one being added this month) and RMHAM DMR (26 repeaters, 4 zoned TGs in three states) networks on dedicated ham microwave with automatic redundant multiple path re-routes. That provides redundancy from the state DTRS system (similar to SLERS and FDOT) in case of failures there. Unique? Many have AC power, some are solar primary, with solar and generator backup. Hardened? Yes, and more. Some of the sites have to survive extreme Winter temps and winds, winds that have removed anemometers and lesser installations many times. Never mind the lightening issues. The audio quality on the Colorado Connection was emensely superior, even back in the 80s using 220 links, to anything I ever heard on SARNET. I wonder why? How does a system like this exist without using taxpayer assets? In fact, providing redundant coverage for the taxpayer assets. Several ham groups work
cooperatively to secure and share sites where possible. Cooperative efforts have kept the Colorado Connection running for over 40 years.
WY DMR Project, 8 sites and growing, dedicated VPN on various modes of data exchange, none on public internet. That provides redundancy from the state WyoLink (similar to SLERS or FDOT network) incase of failures. This system is intentionally not installed on any state system towers to ensure redundant availability. It is also not, and never will be on BrandMeister, DMR-MARC, etc. It's a dedicated AUXCOMM/EMCOMM system. The RF decks and ancilaries are a combination of private donations and grant funding.
Cooperative.
NM Megalink, 37 repeaters, some ham RF linking, some phone lines, some internet. Wow, hams
cooperating to run a 37 repeater statewide system.
Intermountain Intertie, 22 repeaters 5 states. RF linked, and a great example of diverse hams across many miles working together.
Cooperative.
Evergreen Intertie, 48 repeaters in 4 states. Used to be only RF linked, but has added internet ports to get in with dongles etc.
Cooperative efforts have kept this system running for over 30 years.
Yes, I know the value SARNET provided, as it was up and running before I left Florida. As well I've used it on several return trips. I also know, at least in my experience there in ARES (A-DEC) and as an EOC comm team volunteer, hams down that way are particularly fond of no cost, low maintenance, low work, low technical spec, tag along deals with their city, county and state tower assets. (I'm suppressing the urge to rant)
There's no reason the demise of SARNET has to mean a dependable, quality, and as "stand alone" as possible statewide network can't exist. If, IF the amateur community there (42,000 plus) truly believes what they are saying about SARNETs value, the planning meetings should already be underway. I think the talent pool and assets exist there to exceed the service the FDOT arragement provided. Is there the will? The emergency service mindset? If not, maybe most are just upset about losing another taxpayer provided ride for the hobby.
If a truly bi-directionally
cooperative relationship is fostered with state, county, and local authorities, they maybe willing assist in aquiring equipment or influencing private entities to help out. Wouldn't it be great if FPL offered space on some of their statewide towers? Hardened, and plenty of electricity. <<<Hey, Frank.
Look at the successful Georgia statewide DSTAR EMCOMM network. They worked
cooperatively with GA Public Broadcasting, and ended up with primo antenna space across the state. I know someone personally who contributed greatly to that project. Again, truly redundant comms not dependent on the state systems.
Cooperative.
I can't speak to most of the California systems. Most were ham RF linked in the past. They have more linked than anyone though.