FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky is continuing its transition to a statewide Next Generation 911 system, a technology upgrade aimed at improving emergency response times and communication between dispatch centers across the commonwealth.
Governor Andy Beshear announced the expansion this week, saying the new system will modernize how emergency calls are handled at Kentucky’s 117 public safety answering points.
The upgraded system will allow callers to send voice calls, text messages, photos and videos directly to emergency dispatchers from compatible devices. It also uses enhanced mapping technology to more accurately identify a caller’s location and route calls to the appropriate emergency center.
Officials say the system will also improve accessibility for hearing and speech impaired individuals by allowing live text conversations and media sharing with dispatchers.
According to the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, 19 call centers have already transitioned to the new technology. State officials expect implementation to be completed in all Kentucky counties by the end of 2027.
Officials report early benefits at participating centers, including better location accuracy, improved call quality, faster data delivery, and fewer spoofed calls.
State leaders say the goal of the Next Generation 911 system is to help emergency responders reach people more quickly and improve public safety across Kentucky.
