County receives $2M from feds for new emergency operations center
POTTSVILLE – Schuylkill County is receiving $2M from the federal government to construct a new emergency operations center.
U.S. Congressman Dan Meuser (R-9) said in a release that the facility will be “equipped to offer crucial emergency backup support to the region’s 911 Response Team.”
The funding would go towards essential components, including emergency management offices, an operations center, and an IT room, totaling 5,120 square feet.
“I’m happy to have secured $2 million for Schuylkill County to build a cutting-edge Emergency Operations Center,” Meuser said in a release. “This state-of-the-art facility will greatly enhance the county’s ability to respond to emergencies and provide crucial backup support to its 911 response team. This investment is essential to providing top-tier emergency services throughout Schuylkill County and safeguarding our region’s residents.”
Meuser’s office did not say where the facility would be, though the county received approval from West Mahanoy Township planners in December to construct a similar facility at the Schuylkill County Training Academy on Fireman’s Road.
“This funding will greatly support the training of firefighters, our emergency management team, and numerous other first responders,” Commissioner Larry Padora said in the release. “I believe it’s a fantastic development for our county and the surrounding areas, benefiting a multitude of organizations that can make use of this facility. From first responders to local businesses, everyone can utilize this facility for secure emergency training tailored to their needs.”
“Strengthening our volunteer emergency services is essential, and as commissioners, our foremost responsibility is ensuring public safety,” Commissioner Gary Hess added. “The new emergency operations center will guarantee a prompt response to emergencies and ensure there is always someone to answer the call.”
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