Capital Building

Grants

In September 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced more than $40 million in grants to help 911 call centers nationwide implement next-generation technologies.

The grants, which were authorized by the ENHANCE 911 Act, can be used for hardware, software, training or consulting services that directly benefit public safety answering points (PSAPs) in upgrading their equipment and operations. Next-generation technologies are anticipated to allow 911 call centers to receive automatic location information for wireless callers or automatic crash information; allow delivery of text, photo or video messages sent by wireless callers, or enable other features that could improve emergency response or enhance safety.

Grants were awarded to 30 states and territories, ranging from $200,000 (awarded to American Samoa) to $5.4 million (awarded to Texas).

In the coming months, 911.gov will feature case studies and progress reports on select grant recipients.

To view details on grant awards and their intended uses, select a state or territory from the list left. (Note: Not all states and territories applied for the program.)

>> 'SAFECOM' Grant Guidance for Fiscal Year 2012

>> Financial Assistance for Emergency Communications

>> Potential Grant Funding

>> E-911 Grant Program: Final Rule