County Emergency Radio Deemed Model for Nation

Orange County’s emergency radio network, once called a threat to public safety, was declared a model for the country Tuesday in a ceremony that marked the end of the 20-year project to integrate communications among local law enforcement and public safety agencies.

Sheriff Michael S. Carona called the 8000 MHz system “the crown jewel for communication in America.” He was one of three keynote speakers at a ceremony that marked the symbolic end to the $95-million project, among the most controversial in county history.

Early failures included officers within the same agency being unable to communicate by radio because transmissions were blocked by tall structures outside or by apartment walls inside.

Authorities admitted Tuesday that glitches still remain. Joseph W. Robben, manager of the sheriff’s communications division, acknowledged that coverage needs to be improved in coastal areas and valleys. Two years ago, officials received about 160 complaints each month about the system, but Robben said complaints now average 10 per month.

Carona and other law enforcement and public safety officials expressed satisfaction with the radio network, which is designed to last until 2025. Robben said that a “substantial upgrade” is scheduled within 12 years as technology improves.

The system will be expanded in the southern and eastern areas of Orange County, to handle expected population growth in the coming decades. The Board of Supervisors signed off on the completed radio network in February and authorized payment to Motorola, which engineered the system.