Press Releases

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) announced $1.55 million in funding for Shelby County’s interoperable communications infrastructure through FY2026 Community Project Funding, which was signed into law by President Trump on Jan. 22, 2026.

This funding provides for new interoperable radio infrastructure which will connect to the Texas Wide Area Radio Network (TxWARN). TxWARN currently serves over 260 public safety agencies including military, federal, state, and local authorities. Shelby County will work with local partners to place new 700-800 MHz interoperable radio transmitting equipment on existing towers in Shelby County.

“Investing in our infrastructure will ensure our first responders have the communication tools they need to protect Shelby County residents,” said Congressman Moran. “This funding will make our communities safer, our communication systems stronger, and bring Shelby County infrastructure to the 21st century. This is a critical investment in our shared future and will make a tangible difference in residents' daily lives and safety.”

Stakeholder Support:

The Honorable Allison Harbison, Shelby County Judge, said: “This funding represents a milestone for Shelby County’s public safety infrastructure. I’m proud to have partnered with Congressman Moran to enhance our first responders’ ability to protect our community. We are closing dangerous communication gaps that have existed for far too long. This funding will ensure our law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical personnel can coordinate seamlessly when every second counts.”

Lonnie Hunt, Executive Director, Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG), said: “We are so appreciative of Congressman Moran’s efforts to secure this funding for Shelby County. The lack of reliable communications has been a longstanding problem not only in Shelby County but throughout the Deep East Texas region. Significant portions of our rural region currently experience unreliable or nonexistent radio coverage, creating serious risk during fires, major accidents, and other emergencies. Reliable radio coverage is essential for coordinated response and officer safety. These improvements in Shelby County will strengthen the regional interoperable radio system and ensure law enforcement, fire departments, EMS and emergency management personnel can communicate clearly across jurisdictional lines.”

Background:

Interoperable communications systems enable seamless communications between different emergency response agencies during critical incidents. The TxWARN is a statewide radio system that provides reliable voice and data communications for public safety and homeland security officials. The goal of the funding is to eliminate communications gaps that currently exist in Shelby County, ensuring first responders can coordinate effectively during emergencies, natural disasters, and day-to-day operations. 

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