(Louisville, KY) – Today, Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) and Mayor Jerry Abramson announced that the Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government will receive more than $2.2 million in federal funding from the Department of Homeland Security to help upgrade the local and regional emergency communication systems used by police, firefighters, and other first responders.

“These dollars will help Louisville continue to improve and expand MetroSafe, our state-of-the-art emergency communications network that has significantly improved public safety throughout the region,” said Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson. “We appreciate the continued partnership with federal and state leaders to better protect our citizens.”

A total of $2,205,723 is headed to Louisville as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s FY 2010 Urban Areas Security Initiative. The funds will be used to increase coverage for the region’s emergency radio system by completing radio towers and investing in upgrades that will ensure public safety personnel have can receive vital information during emergency situations.

“Whether our community has faced wind, ice, snow, or torrential downpours, Louisville’s first responders have bravely answered the call during several major disasters over the past two years,” said Congressman Yarmuth. “This funding will help ensure they have the best possible resources to make sure our neighborhoods are safe and secure.”

The funding will also be used to provide maintenance to radio facilities and support initiatives to increase coordination between Louisville’s emergency personnel and those from surrounding counties.