Funding the Future: Exploring Financial Strategies for PSAPs Adopting NG911 in 2024
Posted in All, NGA911 on Dec 11, 2023
As we approach 2024, many public safety answering points (PSAPs) still need an upgrade to their current 9-1-1 telecommunication systems. Being at the forefront of emergency response, it's imperative that these public safety organizations are equipped with the latest technology to provide timely and accurate emergency response services.
From improved 9-1-1 call-routing and advanced caller location accuracy to real-time multimedia sharing and streamlined communication interoperability, NG9-1-1 is already revolutionizing how emergency services are delivered. However, transitioning to this system comes at a cost and is a significant undertaking for PSAPs, which requires funding.
In this blog post from NGA, we'll explore available funding options for PSAPs as they look to adopt NG911 in 2024.
Table of Contents:
- Defining NG911
- Next Generation 911: The System
- NG911: The Nationwide Initiative
- Understanding the Cost of Adapting to NG911
- Next Generation 911 Funding Options for PSAPs
- Grant Funding
- Federal Funding
- State-Level Funding
- Creating a Funding Plan
- Conclusion
Defining NG911
NG911, also known as Next Generation 911, is the progression of the current 911 emergency response system. This technology is designed to enhance public safety by improving emergency response times and the accuracy of information provided to first responders.
Next Generation 911: The System
NG911 is an emergency response telecommunications system created to improve how we connect with emergency response and how 911 professionals respond to emergencies.
The NG911 infrastructure runs on advanced internet protocol (IP) and cloud networks capable of handling massive amounts of data and supporting innovative means of communication, such as real-time text messaging, video, and photo streaming.
Because NG911's infrastructure enables PSAPs and other emergency responders to receive information via multimedia, the system provides them with critical information to better address emergencies. In other words, NG911 is designed to enhance emergency response by improving the accuracy, adaptability, reliability, and scalability of 911 services.
NG911: The Nationwide Initiative
At its core, NG911 is a nationwide public safety initiative aiming to provide future ready, faster, more efficient, and effective responses to emergencies. NG911 also refers to this countrywide initiative, which aims to have all PSAPs and other emergency call centers transition from outdated 911 systems and upgrade them to NG911.
By improving communication through new technologies and protocols, NG911 aims to provide better support for individuals in distress and give emergency response teams the tools they need to respond to incidents more efficiently and safely. PSAPs will be better equipped with the latest and most advanced technological solutions, allowing them to receive and process emergency calls faster than ever before.
Understanding the Cost of Adapting to NG911
Before we explore the funding options available to PSAPs, it's essential to understand the costs involved in adapting to NG911. According to the Wall Street Journal, a 2018 report submitted to Congress estimated that updating legacy systems to NG911 would cost between $9.5 and $12.7 billion over the next ten years.
This cost includes the following:
- Implementing new hardware and software
- Training personnel
- Integrating with existing systems
- Transitioning call-flows from legacy systems to NG911 platforms
- Complying with NG911 NENA standards
Next Generation 911 Funding Options for PSAPs
To help make the transition to NG911 a reality, various funding options are available to PSAPs. By exploring these options and working with industry leaders in NG911 technology, PSAPs can ensure they have the necessary resources to continue providing the critical 911 services communities rely on.
Grant Funding
One way 911 telecommunication centers can access NG911 implementation funding is through grant funding. Organizations like NENA, the US Department of Commerce, and FEMA offer grant opportunities for PSAPs to apply for and secure funding for NG911.
To effectively access these grants, PSAPs should carefully meet all the necessary guidelines and submit a well-designed application.
Federal Funding
The federal government has proposed funds through legislation such as the LIFT America Act of 2019 to support public safety entities and the implementation of NG911 across the country. PSAPs can work with their state governments to ensure that they receive the available funding.
PSAPs can apply for federal funding, but it's important to note that strong competition exists for these funds. Emergency response centers must put together compelling applications that demonstrate their need for the funds and how they will enhance their emergency response capabilities.
State-Level Funding
State-level funding is another avenue that PSAPs can explore to finance NG911 adoption. PSAPs must work with state agencies to secure funding, but the availability of funds varies significantly from state to state.
In some states, the responsibility to fund NG911 falls entirely on the PSAP; in others, the state provides full or partial funding. PSAPs should identify the funding mechanisms available in their states and work proactively to secure support.
Creating a Funding Plan
A funding plan is an essential tool in the successful implementation of NG911. A funding plan provides a roadmap for securing the funds needed for the project and a clear picture of the financial requirements from start to finish.
PSAPs should brainstorm with stakeholders and create a comprehensive funding plan that identifies all the potential funding sources and outlines the timeline for securing those funds.
Conclusion
The transition to NG911 is an exciting development in emergency response, but it's not without its financial challenges. By exploring different funding strategies, PSAPs can find a solution that works best for their needs and resources.
Regardless of the funding strategy chosen, public safety organizations must begin planning and preparing early to ensure a smooth transition to NG911 in 2024.