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800MHz Project

In 1986, several police agencies established the 800MHz Consortium. The purpose of the Consortium was to build and maintain a communications system that allowed for interoperable communication among the member agencies. Over time, the Consortium Membership grew to include most police, fire, and EMS agencies in Washtenaw County, as well as non-first responders, including the road commission, AATA, and ETC.

The system worked well for many years, but technological advances have made much of the equiptment obsolete. Consequently, in May 2006, the voters of Washtenaw County approved a millage to optimize radio communication  in Washtenaw County with the goal of accomplishing three things:

  • Provide a common communications system with enhanced coverage that allows all public safety users in Washtenaw County to communicate with each other.
  • Provide each public safety entity with mobile, portable, and base radios that allow for adequate discharge of their duties and responsibilities at a commonly agreed upon level of service.
  • Assume responsibility for Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) charges for a minimum period of 10 years.

The purpose of the 800MHz project, then, is to increase the communication coverage throughout Washtenaw County, and ultimately create a common framework through which all police, fire, and EMS agencies can communicate with one another in a time of emergency. 

This project includes the construction of radio towers and the purchase of mobile and portable radios for all first responders.  This project uses existing resources provided by the Michigan Public Safety Communications System. 

The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners appointed the 800MHz Project Oversight Committee, and authorized them to manage all project details relating to the new system.

In addition to the Consortium and the Oversight Committee, there is an 800MHz Implementation Team. This working group, which has been appointed by both the Consortium and the Oversight Committee, meets weekly to make recommendations about the new system.

For more information regarding the 800MHz project, or to be place on the 800MHz distribution list, please contact Scott Patton at pattons@ewashtenaw.org.  For information on the 800MHz Business Plan, please click Business Plan.