NTIA accepts applications for $1 billion interopeability fund

Some movement on the communication interoperability front: The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has published revised guidance for states and local agencies to apply for a share of a national $1 billion public safety interoperability fund. Under the guidance, $968 million will be distributed to the states, which in turn will be required to match 20 percent of their awards. Each state must submit an interoperability strategy, as well as justifications for specific projects. GCN’s Alice Lipowicz writes that Congress established the fund as part of the move by TV broadcasters to digital television, a move which will free up spectrum in the 700 MHz band. It is to be reimbursed by proceeds of an upcoming federal auction of this public radio spectrum. Under the law, the NTIA, in consultation with DHS, must award all grants by 30 September. Agencies have until 30 September 2010 to spend the money. The fund aims to assist public-safety agencies in acquiring, deploying, and training for interoperable radio systems which can use public safety radio spectrum. The lack of interoperability proved a major obstacle to effective emergency activities during 911, Katrina, and host of other disasters.

Note that the original grant guidance called for investments in the 700 Mhz band only, but the revised guidelines allow for investments in other spectrum bands. States also may use a portion of the grant funding to establish and implement a strategic technology reserve that may be prepositioned in readiness for a disaster, NTIA said. The program also includes a set-aside of $75 million to be distributed to all 56 states and territories specifically for prepositioning activities.