Hillsdale County is on track to launch an updated emergency radio system by late summer.
Hillsdale County 911 Director Thomas Whitaker told WCSR News that the 800 Megahertz system is expected to be online by late July or early August. The project will replace the county’s aging radio equipment, which has been in use for decades.
The new system is funded by a bond that was approved by voters in 2024.
With the outdated system, emergency workers often struggle with “dead spots” where they don’t have radio coverage.
Whitaker said the upgrade to the 800 MHz system is a major safety boost for the community. It’ll greatly improve communication between Hillsdale County and the Michigan State Police, along with nearby counties, which are already using the updated technology.
Whitaker said the improved communication has the potential to save lives during large-scale emergencies.
The transition also has the potential to save local tax dollars, as the state will help monitor and maintain the system.