I don't want to hijack this thread, but I have been meaning to post about the new system and have a thread going where people can post information they know about the build-out (progress, timeframe,, frequencies, talkgroups, testing, system layout, cutover, etc). This is the information I have so far:
This system is being replaced by a Motorola P25 Phase I (upgradable to Phase II) trunked system that is currently being built out. It will be 11 channel. The primary site will remain at the same location as the current system and there may be additional sites. The system and police radios will be equipped with end-to-end AES encryption; all other departments will be in the clear. If it stays the way it is now, Police units operate in the clear with routine traffic unless encryption is needed and is manually switched on or off. The city will maintain their inter-operable VHF frequencies and they will interface with the new system.
Police will get High-tier mobiles and portables, Fire will get mid-tier, and all other departments will get low-tier. Only high-tier radios will be encryption capable.
The city will approve the cutover after a 30-day performance test and there will be a 90-day user evaluation period.