The official press release would seem to indicate that everything is operational. However almost indicates not everyone is using it right now. Below uses the terminology "in the coming months" "as we near completion"
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Gov. Heineman Activates New State Radio Network
(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman was joined today by emergency personnel to activate the final phase of Nebraska’s new state wireless radio network.
The network was assembled in four phases during a 16 month timeframe. Installations covering 68 counties were completed in three phases during the first year. Phase IV installations across a 25 county section of eastern Nebraska have taken place during the last few months.
“This is a major milestone for Nebraska and I am excited to celebrate the final piece our new state wireless radio network,” Gov. Heineman said. “This project has required detailed planning and intense coordination at the state and local level. At a time when many states have abandoned plans for interoperable communication, Nebraska was able to build a statewide network because of our strong partnerships and our ability to work together.”
Jointly owned and operated by the State of Nebraska and the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), the network connects public safety personnel from several state agencies and utility crews from the state’s largest power provider.
With the activation of the final phase of the network, communication among state agency personnel and NPPD utility crews is possible in every Nebraska county.
The project involved the installation of communications equipment at six Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) communications centers across the state and at the NPPD Operations Center; construction of two new radio towers, along with upgrades and equipment installation on more than 50 radio towers across the state; and the installation of more than 1,300 radios used by the State Patrol, State Fire Marshal, Department of Roads, and NPPD.
Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, Nebraska’s Director of Homeland Security, said, “Clear communication is an essential part of emergency response. Developing a better communications system for first responders has been a top priority. Having this new system in place helps ensure they have the tools to do their jobs more effectively. This network was developed by people who play key roles in our homeland security leadership team. Today’s success shows how well this group works together.”
In 2004, state officials outlined a plan to achieve interoperable communications for state and local first responders and emergency managers. The plan called for a new wireless radio network for state agency personnel that would also serve as a backbone connecting eight regional communications networks. State officials devoted a significant portion of Nebraska’s federal homeland security grant funds to develop regional communications networks, which provide interoperable communications for local entities across county lines.
In the coming months, officials will finalize mutual aid agreements to allow for the integration of the state and regional radio networks and achieve full interoperability with local first responders, county emergency management personnel and some federal personnel in Nebraska.
State Patrol Superintendant Col. Bryan Tuma said, “As we near the completion of the Statewide Radio Project I wish to express my appreciation to all of our partners and stakeholders who have worked so hard to make this possible. The new radio system will greatly enhance officer safety and improve the efficiency of our officers.”
Pat Pope, NPPD Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, said, “The implementation of the statewide radio system has been a significant collaboration between NPPD and the State of Nebraska. Besides the savings to our customers throughout the state, the system adds a unique dimension to the reliability of our electric system and safety of our employees, and gives us a more robust communication network with other agencies during major emergencies.”
Newly activated counties include: Burt, Butler, Cass, Cedar, Colfax, Cuming, Dakota, Dixon, Dodge, Douglas, Franklin, Johnson, Nemaha, Nuckolls, Otoe, Platte, Pawnee, Polk, Richardson, Sarpy, Saunders, Thayer, Thurston, Washington, and Webster Counties.
Partners in the project include: NSP, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, Nebraska Educational Telecommunications, and the Office of the Chief Information Officer, which provides technical support for the state radio network.
Additional agencies are expected to utilize the network, including the Nebraska National Guard, the Departments of Agriculture, Correctional Services, Environmental Quality, Health and Human Services, and others.
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