City of Norfolk will be getting new radio equipment

NORFOLK, NE (News Channel Nebraska)-A new radio system means first responders in Norfolk will be able to communicate more efficiently.

In a unanimous vote by the Norfolk City Council , members voted to approve a new radio system, something Public Safety Director, Shane Weidner says will be an important asset when responding to a crisis.

“When it comes to managing an emergency operation or managing any kind of a major event that calls for additional resources coming to our community, fluid communication is ideal and really a necessity for successful outcomes,” says Weidner.

Officials say the new radio system will be part of the new statewide system. This means that Norfolk officials and first responders will be able to tap into and communicate more swiftly with other agencies such as the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. Officials also say the new radio system will eliminate problems with their current system.

"This radio system will position the City of Norfolk in a great spot to be able to provide those kinds of services,” says Weidner.

The new radio system is expected to be fully operational by the beginning of next year with the equipment arriving by the end of September and construction for the communication tower already in the works.