Oakland County has achieved a significant milestone with the successful implementation of its new P25 Radio System, representing a crucial leap forward in fortifying public safety and emergency response capabilities across the region. Seamlessly integrated into the Michigan Public Safety Communication System (MPSCS), this state-of-the-art radio infrastructure ensures seamless communication channels for first responders, both within the county and beyond, vastly improving their capacity to safeguard and serve communities.

“This achievement underscores our unwavering dedication to public safety in Oakland County,” stated Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter during a press briefing held at the Donald F. Fracassi Municipal Campus in Southfield. “With expanded radio coverage, we are now better positioned to ensure the safety and well-being of all our residents.”

The previous OpenSky radio system, in operation since 2005, presented significant challenges for first responders, including coverage gaps upon crossing county lines and dead spots within Oakland County. However, the introduction of the new P25 Radio System heralds a transformative era in public safety communication, ensuring residents receive top-notch emergency services.

Sheriff Michael Bouchard emphasized the critical importance of robust communication systems, particularly in times of crises, citing lessons learned from major events like 9-11 and Hurricane Katrina. The real-time communication capabilities of the new system significantly enhance coordination among responding agencies during emergencies, potentially saving lives.

Endorsed by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, the upgraded system received $61 million in funding, facilitating the distribution of over 6,000 Motorola radios to first responders and the modernization of 20 dispatch centers. Notable features include a GPS locator for emergency situations, comprehensive recording capabilities, and additional channels for improved inter-agency collaboration.

According to Oakland County Commissioner Penny Luebs of Clawson, the upgraded system ensures seamless coverage, enabling first responders to assist residents regardless of location, thus enhancing the safety of both citizens and responders.

This advanced system not only addresses communication gaps within the county but also extends reliable radio connectivity statewide, streamlining operations for first responders across various agencies.

Farmington Hills Fire Chief Jon Unruh commended the system's functionality and improved coverage, foreseeing enhanced incident response and firefighter safety in hazardous conditions.

Moreover, the implementation of the P25 Radio System positions some Oakland County agencies to contribute to security efforts during the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, showcasing the system's versatility and readiness for major events.

Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren highlighted the system's positive impact on officer safety and operational flexibility, facilitating seamless collaboration during events outside the city.

Key statistics about the Oakland County P25 Radio System include a network of 6,379 radios, supporting numerous fire departments, police agencies, public safety entities, and dispatch centers within the county, while also enabling direct communication with over 2,000 public safety agencies and 126 dispatch centers statewide operating on the MPSCS.