PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) — The Floyd County Fiscal Court is joining two neighboring counties in an effort to upgrade emergency communications systems.

During its February 18 meeting, the court approved a resolution to partner with Pike and Martin counties in applying for funding through the Center for Rural Development.

The resolution states the Fiscal Court represents the collective interests of first responders in Floyd County and noted communication challenges during the 2022 officer-involved shooting in Allen, as well as during years of severe flooding.

County leaders say those events highlighted the need for improved regional two-way radio communications.

The resolution authorizes Floyd County to enter into a joint effort with Pike and Martin counties, along with participating cities and 911 agencies, to expand and strengthen radio coverage.

Officials say working together as a region improves the chances of securing state or federal funding and would allow for the development of a regional trunked radio system to provide more reliable communication for public safety agencies across all three counties.