LCRA, Coastal Bend Radio Coalition Join Forces to Keep First Responders Connected Outside Their Service Areas

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX- The Coastal Bend Public Safety Radio Coalition, an alliance of South Texas first responders, is connecting to the Lower Colorado River Authority's (LCRA) radio system to enhance regional emergency communications, creating one of the largest public safety emergency communications networks in Texas. The expanded network will enable the first responders to maintain continuous radio coverage during hurricane evacuations and other emergencies that take them outside the Coastal Bend.

The coalition includes first responders from the cities of Corpus Christi and Kingsville, sheriff's departments from Brooks, Kleberg, Nueces, and San Patricio counties, the Port of Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, and Portland police departments, and the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority.

When fully operational, the expanded radio system will enable the emergency responders to use their radios in more than 57 counties, or about a fifth of Texas.

"Communication is critical for first responders during an emergency," said Jace Johson, Corpus Christi Emergency Management Coordinator. "This expanded radio network is a significant public safety initiative."

"The large communications umbrella this creates over the region provides interoperability that helps first responders provide mutual aid more quickly in times of need," said Peter Collins, chief information officer for the City of Corpus Christi. "We're excited about the expansion and look forward to other first responders joining as well."

More than 200 external customers use LCRA's radio system, including more than 100 first responder entities, 75 cities and counties, 11 electric utilities, 16 school districts and universities, and two transit authorities.

About LCRA

The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River, generating and transmitting electric power, providing a clean, reliable water supply, and offering outdoor adventures at more than 40 parks along the Colorado River from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. LCRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1934 and receives no state appropriations. For more information, visit www.lcra.org.

About the Coastal Bend Public Safety Radio Coalition

The Coastal Bend Public Safety Radio Coalition operates a regional radio system that encompasses Brooks, Goliad, Kleberg, Live Oak, Nueces and San Patricio counties. The coalition has collaborated to develop a robust, interoperable radio system that supports radios compliant with P25 Phase 2 standards, including models from Motorola. Notable users of the Motorola P25 Phase 2 radios include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the U.S. Navy.