CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – In an effort to improve communications between county and city public safety departments, the County Commission Monday night approved a long-term lease agreement for a portion of land in southwestern Montgomery County to construct a radio communications tower.
Once constructed, the tower will allow for several public safety departments in Montgomery County to move from a 400-megahertz system to an 800-megahertz system.
While speaking on the importance of the radio communications tower in May 2023, County Mayor Wes Golden said departments such as the Clarksville Police Department and Clarksville Fire Rescue are already on an 800-megahertz system. Meanwhile, the Sheriff’s Office, EMS and other countywide public safety departments have been stuck on a 400-megahertz system.
However, with the communications tower set to be built, this will allow for all city and county public safety departments to be on one system.
“Implementing a new communication system for our first responders is not just an upgrade; it’s a vital investment in the safety and well-being of our community,” Golden told Clarksville Now.
“Efficient communication can mean the difference between life and death during emergencies. We saw the need during major disasters such as the tornado in December of 2023. Our dedicated first responders will have the tools they need to act swiftly and effectively, ensuring that we can protect our citizens and respond to crises with the utmost professionalism.”
A portion of the funding for construction of the tower was approved by the County Commission last May and had been financed through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Meanwhile, another portion of the funds will come from the State of Tennessee, as well as grant dollars, according to Chief Deputy Sheriff John Smith.
Smith also told Clarksville Now the radio communications tower is anticipated to be constructed over an 18-to-20-month period.
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