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Sen. Britt secures $350,000 for Phenix City police radio upgrades

Officials said the grant would replace outdated radios, strengthen building coverage and improve officer safety during routine calls and emergencies.

Sen. Katie Britt during a Senate committee hearing.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt, R-Alabama, recently announced that she secured $350,000 to upgrade the Phenix City Police Department’s P25 radio system through the fiscal year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

“I’m proud to secure $350,000 for Phenix City law enforcement to upgrade its P25 Radio System,” Britt said. “As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’m committed to returning taxpayer dollars to our communities. This critical funding will improve emergency communications and help Phenix City law enforcement better protect community members. I’m eager to see the lasting impact this funding will have in strengthening Phenix City for years to come.”

According to Britt’s announcement, the P25 radio system allows Phenix City law enforcement officers to maintain direct and efficient communications while using equipment from different manufacturers.

The funding will allow the Police Department to upgrade the system to better serve residents and respond to public safety emergencies and natural disasters.

Phenix City Police Chief Joey Weierick thanked Britt for securing the funding through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee and said the upgrades would improve law enforcement communications.

“The City of Phenix City is grateful to receive funding through the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act secured by U.S. Senator Katie Britt,” Weierick said. “This support will allow the city to replace a significant portion of outdated radio equipment.”

“The new portable radios purchased with this grant incorporate the latest technology, including SmartConnect over Wi-Fi, enabling officers to maintain reliable communications inside buildings and structures where traditional radio coverage may be limited,” he added. “This upgrade enhances officer safety and ensures more dependable communication during both routine operations and emergency incidents.”

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The upgrades represent a portion of the more than $15.8 million in Alabama investments Britt secured through the fiscal year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies appropriations bill.

The legislation also includes funding for research and training programs at Alabama universities, sediment flow studies at the Port of Mobile and other local law enforcement initiatives.

Alex Jobin is a reporter. You can reach him at [email protected].

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