Governor David A. Paterson today announced that New York State and New York City have applied for $540 million in broadband Federal stimulus grants to expand existing State-owned broadband networks and strengthen public safety interoperability in all of the State's counties, New York City, and neighboring states. The proposed projects reflect the Governor's plan to build a New Economy based on knowledge, technology and innovation, by maximizing Federal stimulus funding to improve broadband infrastructure while creating jobs to stimulate the State economy. The State of New York, in partnership with the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) and the City of New York, submitted separate but complementary broadband Federal stimulus applications to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), which represent an unprecedented level of cooperation and collaboration between State and local entities.
"These two applications are the most innovative and efficient public safety networks our current technology has to offer," Governor Paterson said. "The projects align with the goals set forth in the broadband provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, specifically with regard to enhancing service for public safety anchor institutions, as well as supporting New York State's overall broadband strategy. I can think of no better projects for the NTIA to fund for our public safety than these applications submitted on behalf of the State of New York and the City of New York."
New York State, in partnership with NYSAC, proposes to deploy a 700 MHz wireless broadband network for public safety use to 57 counties outside of New York City for State and local government use. The network will adopt a common technological standard to support a variety of applications which public safety users can access during normal and emergency field operations. Applications include streaming video, digital imaging, automatic vehicle location, computer aided dispatching, e-mail, mapping/GIS, remote database access, report management system access, text messaging, telemetry/remote diagnostics, and web access will be available over the high-speed broadband.
1 comment:
Providing public access to the Internet has been a talking point in many a campaign past. Difference here is Paterson isn't running for anything.
If I recall, both you and Reynolds brought up this issue in 2006. Didn't pan out as a "for profit" venture but might work if the state spends our tax dollars to make it work.
This would be where Glenn Beck says "Some things are so big that only Government can pull it off". This idea of Paterson's might require OUR money, but the economic impact would be worth it.
It's a rare moment when I find myself agreeing with that man, but Paterson is right on with free WiFi.
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