Carroll County Awarded $250K ThreeStar Grant

CARROLL COUNTY (October 2) — Governor Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner (TNECD) Stuart C. McWhorter announced Thursday that Carroll County, alongside 33 other Tennessee communities, will receive funding from the latest round of ThreeStar grants. Carroll County received $250,000 to improve emergency communications.

The grant allows Carroll County’s law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, rescue squads, and emergency management to begin moving onto the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN), a reliable statewide system already used by state and federal agencies, by purchasing and deploying TACN-compatible communication equipment for local responder agencies.

Today, parts of Carroll County still have limited or no service with current radio systems or cell phones, creating dangerous gaps during emergencies. TACN uses a statewide network of towers, including a new tower planned for Carroll County to provide dependable coverage, even in areas where current service is weak.

Carroll County Chief Deputy Joel Pate expressed appreciation to the Mayor’s Office and County Commission for listening to the need for improved communications for all first responders in Carroll County. He said, “This grant is a tremendous first step in assuring we can provide good communications equipment to our personnel as they fulfill the public safety and emergency needs of the great citizens of Carroll County. Being awarded the ThreeStar grant is a win for all of Carroll County.”

“This grant is a major step forward for Carroll County,” stated Commissioner Lana Suite. “Public safety is the most important responsibility we have, and stronger communication gives our responders the ability to work more effectively in every corner of the county. By joining TACN, Carroll County is moving toward a modern system that will serve our people for years to come.”

“Reliable communication saves lives. This grant is essential to Carroll County, strengthening our ability to respond effectively and in improving radio interoperability among agencies during emergencies and natural disasters.” said Trevor Foster, Carroll County EMA Director.

By connecting all first responder agencies on the same system, the project will improve coordination, reduce response times, and give Carroll County residents greater confidence that help will be there when needed. Many stakeholders were engaged in this process, led by Carroll County Grant Administrator Amber Parham.

The ThreeStar program, administered by TNECD, helps communities prepare for long-term growth and success by funding projects that improve public safety, education, workforce development, and economic resilience. In total, TNECD awarded $9.6 million in funding to Tennessee communities to support local workforce training, health and economic development initiatives.