SALEM, Ore. — Oregon is taking a major step toward modernizing its emergency communications infrastructure through a new partnership with Lumen Technologies and Intrado to implement Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) services across the state.
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management announced the partnership as part of its ongoing effort to replace aging analog emergency communication systems with a modern, internet protocol (IP)-based network designed to improve reliability, interoperability, and emergency response capabilities.
The initiative will support the deployment of Next Generation Core Services, the technological foundation of NG9-1-1, and strengthen the statewide emergency communications network serving all 36 Oregon counties and the state’s Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs).
“Oregon is committed to building a reliable, resilient, and future-ready 9-1-1 system for communities across the state,” said Frank Kuchta, State 9-1-1 Program Manager with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “These partnerships are an important step forward in strengthening emergency communications infrastructure and enhancing the services Oregonians rely on during emergencies.”
State officials say the transition to NG9-1-1 represents the next evolution in emergency communications technology, enabling more efficient call routing, improved coordination among emergency response agencies, and greater system resiliency during disasters and major incidents.
Over the past several years, the department has worked closely with Oregon’s 40 Public Safety Answering Points to prepare for the transition. Readiness efforts have included upgrading communications networks, evaluating facility preparedness, and modernizing phone systems to support advanced emergency communications technologies.
A key component of Oregon’s strategy has been the adoption of a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-centric approach. Officials say standardized and accurate geospatial data will play a critical role in supporting NG9-1-1 call routing and interoperability, helping emergency responders more quickly and accurately locate callers in need.
According to the department, the new system will provide several benefits, including:
- More efficient and accurate emergency call routing
- Support for future communication technologies and emergency response tools
- Increased resiliency and redundancy during emergencies and natural disasters
- Enhanced interoperability between Oregon PSAPs and neighboring states
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Oregon to modernize its 9-1-1 infrastructure, delivering a secure, resilient network that strengthens emergency response and helps forward the critical public safety mission,” said Josh Finke, Senior Vice President of Public Sector at Lumen Technologies.
Lou Blatt, Chief Product Officer at Intrado, said the company is honored to support Oregon’s modernization efforts.
“Intrado is proud to partner with the State of Oregon and Lumen to deliver innovative, next-generation i3 services and solutions that empower life-saving operations for communities across Oregon,” Blatt said.
Oregon is home to 40 Public Safety Answering Points that serve residents in all 36 counties. State officials said additional implementation updates and project milestones will be announced as the NG9-1-1 rollout progresses.
Residents interested in learning more about Oregon’s Next Generation 9-1-1 initiative, GIS readiness efforts, and implementation progress can visit the state’s NG9-1-1 information resources. Officials have also published an educational guide explaining how the modernization effort will improve emergency communications, call routing, system resiliency, and future emergency response capabilities for Oregonians.
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