Press Releases

Fitzpatrick Delivers $727,000 to Modernize Emergency Services and Strengthen Bucks County Public Safety

October 25, 2024

Langhorne, PA – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) announced a major victory for the Bucks County community, securing $727,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF) for Bucks County Emergency Services to modernize and enhance critical technology services. This federal investment, part of the FY24 Consolidated Appropriations Act, was championed by Fitzpatrick as part of a broader effort to direct federal resources to key projects and programs that directly benefit Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District.

Through the Community Project Funding Request process for the 118th Congress, which was included in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, Fitzpatrick successfully secured more than $27.5 million in funding for 14 transformative community projects that will directly benefit First District constituents. Additionally, Fitzpatrick secured over $19 million in CPF Funding for 13 projects in FY23 and over $6.6 million in CPF funding for 10 projects in FY22.

Bucks County’s public safety programs, including its Emergency Services and Sheriff’s Office, depend on state-of-the-art technologies to operate efficiently and respond effectively to emergencies. Thanks to Fitzpatrick’s leadership in securing this funding, police, fire, and emergency medical services across 117 departments will replace 5,100 outdated portable radio batteries and chargers, ensuring seamless communication in critical situations. Furthermore, the introduction of body-worn cameras will enhance officer safety, promote accountability, and build trust between law enforcement and the community they serve. These upgrades signify essential advancements in life-saving services and strengthen the vital bond between officers and residents, ensuring a public safety framework that is robust, transparent, and responsive.

“PA-1 is home to some of the finest first responders in our nation. These courageous heroes put their lives on the line every day to safeguard our community, and it is my steadfast commitment to ensure they have the resources necessary for their vital work. This initiative represents a significant advancement in that mission, enhancing their safety and, by extension, the safety of our entire community. By modernizing our emergency services, we are equipping our first responders to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow, solidifying our dedication to a safer Bucks County for all. said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1).

"Transparency and accountability are critical for building community trust in the offices that serve them. This grant will help to ensure transparency not only in the Bucks County Sheriff's Office, but also in the Department of Corrections and the Bucks County Public Safety Department," said Fred Harran, Bucks County Sheriff.

More on Modernizing the Bucks County Public Safety Programs:

This project ensures that our agencies can focus on their vital work with the assurance that they have access to reliable and advanced technologies that not only enhance their safety on the job but promote transparency within our community. 

Key components include:

  • Upgrading technology to maintain swift and effective communication between first responders in Bucks County Emergency Services to ensure that these heroes can promptly correspond in timely or dangerous situations.
  • Elevated transparency between our police officers and community members through the implementation of body worn cameras, which are critical in sustaining a strong level of trust between these agencies and the individuals they serve.
  • Enhancing community safety by more effectively answering calls of distress and assisting both promptly and successfully.

Learn More About Additional Community Projects Congressman Has Secured Critical Funding for:

Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2024/10/fitzpatrick-delivers-727-000-to-modernize-emergency-services-and-strengthen-bucks-county-public-safety