By Mary Owen
The Joliet Tribune
JOLIET, Ill. — The Joliet police and fire departments are getting a new digital radio system to replace its current analog system, which officials said is nearly obsolete. The total cost would be about $4.8 million, but the payments would be spread over 10 years starting in either 2012 or 2013. The Joliet City Council unanimously approved the contract at the Dec. 19 pre-council meeting. The new system could be installed as early as May 2012.
The proposed digital system would replace the 12-year-old analog radio system, which uses parts that are no longer manufactured, said Police Chief Mike Trafton. If the current system breaks down there are “extremely limited” back-up options, he said.
The proposed system would be purchased from Motorola, which owns and operates the StarCom21 system that is used statewide. StarCom21 allows many law enforcement officials, including the Illinois State Police and other agencies, to communicate with Joliet police and fire.
Full story: Joliet police, fire departments get new $4.8M radio system