Madison County, NC is embarking on phase two of a 911 system improvement, focusing on towers. KTRK-TV reported that a $2.5 million budget will help upgrade three towers. According to County Manager Rod Honeycutt, $1 million was set aside for the project in 2020, but the estimate exceeded the budget. Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) “stepped in,” said Honeycutt, adding $1.5 million in federal funds.
Now, Madison County is ready for a contract, with government contractor Zetron expected to construct the project. KTRK-TV reported that the tower upgrade will support a simulcast system, connecting the three towers to the emergency operations center.
Mars Hill Fire Department Deputy Chief Bennie Gaddy added that the system will go beyond emergency response communications. “We can include our county schools into the system,” he said. “In the future, we can include transportation.”
KTRK-TV reported that phase two of the 911 upgrade is expected to begin in summer 2024. After breaking ground, the towers should be operational in two years.
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