Money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) could provide a boost to the Janesville Fire Department's communication with dispatchers.
The funds are part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant, and would build two new, taller, towers at Janesville's Fire Station Two on South Washington Streeet and Fire Station Four on East Milwaukee Street. The taller towers allow access to the county's high speed public safety network. Deputy Fire Chief Jim Jensen says the wireless connection would allow police and fire officials access to new features, like mapping technology. It also allows 911 dispatchers to send messages directly to response units.
Jensen says the new technology could also allow the city's HazMat team to download information needed at emergency incidents. The project is expected to cost about $22,000 for the purchase and installation of the towers.
It's making its way through Rock County Board committees this week.