September 3, 2008
Press Release

Reed Announces Over $350,000 in Federal Aid to Bolster Newport's Emergency Preparedness

NEWPORT, RI – As coastal states brace against the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined Newport City Manager Edward Lavallee and Newport Police Chief Michael McKenna at the Newport Police Department to discuss over $350,000 in new federal aid that will help protect Rhode Islanders and safeguard the city’s infrastructure against natural disasters and other emergencies.  Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, and Senator Whitehouse secured the funds in the 2008 appropriations spending bill.

This federal funding will be used to develop an interoperable communications network among Newport’s public safety agencies and first responders.  The money will enable the Newport Police Department to replace its existing radios with 40 new in-car radios and 95 portable radios.  This new state-of-the-art equipment will ensure that participating police, fire, and rescue departments can communicate on a single frequency; provide live video and in-car computer links to front-line police cars; and eliminate dead-spots between the police department and field units. 

“I am pleased to have secured this federal funding to help strengthen Newport’s emergency response capabilities.  This new communications system will enable the city’s public safety agencies to communicate instantaneously so they can react to emergencies more quickly,” said Reed.  “The landfall of hurricane Gustav in New Orleans this week was another reminder that our public safety agencies need the best tools available to respond to natural disasters and other catastrophic events.  Whether it’s a hurricane, a snowstorm, or some other threat, a robust communication system is an essential tool for Rhode Island’s first responders who work hard to save lives and safeguard our businesses, homes, and public infrastructure.”

As a popular tourist destination with over 4 million annual visitors, Newport faces unique safety and security challenges.  The city is home to two military installations and is the major gateway for marine commerce through Narragansett Bay.  The Pell Bridge, which abuts Newport Harbor and the U.S. Navy Base, has been rated the second highest homeland security risk in Rhode Island. 

Edward Lavallee, Newport’s City Manager stated: “Acquisition of this new system for Newport will measurably enhance the ability of police, fire, rescue, and other public safety entities to effectively communicate during inter-agency activities. Events like tall ship visits, major music festivals, military events, and visits by prominent national and international political dignitaries, make Newport a key location for critical public safety operating efficiencies. The system we are acquiring is expensive, state-of-the-art technology.  Without the assistance of our Congressional delegation we would not have been able to acquire this valuable public safety tool. We are extremely appreciative of the efforts of Senator Reed, Senator Whitehouse, and the entire delegation for fostering the approval of the public safety grant award for Newport.”

“On behalf of the members of the Newport Police Department I would like to thank Senator Reed and Senator Whitehouse for their efforts in securing Federal Aid to upgrade our present outdated communications system to the 800 MHz Digital system,” said Michael McKenna, Newport’s Chief of Police. “This new interoperable communication system will allow us to communicate with other public safety agencies within Newport County, the state of Rhode Island and Federal authorities."

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