CAIRO — Grady County’s E911 radio system is getting a much-needed upgrade. 

The upgrade, which started this week, is converting the current system from VHF to a 700 megahertz system, according to Grady County Administrator Carlos Tobar. 

The upgrade is a partnership with Grady and Decatur counties. 

“The two counties are sharing the infrastructure cost,” Tobar said. 

Grady County will put forth $692,617.73 and $846,532.78 will come from Decatur County for a combined cost of $1,539,150.50. 

A total of $2,036,899.50 for radio costs between the different agencies is also part of the upgrade. Each agency will have a seven-year lease. A total of 1,063 radios are part of the upgrade. 

The total cost of the radio system upgrade is $3,576,050. 

Tobar said upgrade benefits include producing less radio traffic interference and better transmission between buildings. 

Other benefits include better system regulation and a more cost effective system, Tobar noted. 

“I think the longevity of this radio system is enhanced,” Tobar added. 

Repeaters also will be housed in public safety vehicles for better coverage in unincorporated and forested areas.  

Currently, microwaves are being installed on towers located in southern Grady County.  

A projected soft deadline for completion is July. If not completed in July, Tobar said completion will occur within the current year.  

Along with different Grady and Decatur agencies, the E911 system is also a partnership with Thomasville and Albany, with the master switch housed in Albany.   

Agencies and number of radios include: 

•Grady County Board of Commissioners — 297

•Decatur County Board of Commissioners — 369

•Decatur County Board of Education — 158

•Decatur EMS — 27

•City of Cairo — 68

•City of Whigham — 19

•City of Bainbridge — 120

•City of Attapulgus — 2

•City of Climax — 3