Sharp County officials say upgrades to a communications tower will improve radio coverage and emergency response in the southwestern part of the county.
Sharp County Sheriff Shane Russell announced in a Monday news release that radio communications in the area have been limited and at times nearly nonexistent. A new radio repeater has now been installed to provide more reliable coverage.
The improvements are expected to assist the Sidney Fire Department and local ambulance services by strengthening communication during emergencies, allowing for better coordination and faster response times.
The project began after Sidney Mayor Nathan Bloch, former Fire Chief Joe Blackburn, and Ronnie and Brandon Schultz approached Russell last year about converting a communications tower on the Schultz family’s farm. The tower had previously been used by Hillbilly Wireless.
The new equipment was installed by Wilks Communications of Cave City.
Funding for the project came through NCIC inmate communications and commissary funds from the Sharp County Detention Center.
County officials say the cooperation of the Schultz family helped make the project possible and contributed to strengthening emergency services for residents in the area.
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