Bredesen Announces Allocation of $16.7 Million to Tennessee's 11 Homeland Security Districts
NASHVILLE --- Tennessee will distribute $16.7 million in federal homeland security grant funds to the state’s 11 Homeland Security Districts, Governor Phil Bredesen and Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell announced today. Local authorities will use the 2009 federal homeland security funds to strengthen the capabilities of first responders to detect, deter, prepare and respond to acts of terror and other disasters.
“Homeland security remains a priority for Tennessee, and that demands we remain in a constant state of preparedness,” Governor Bredesen said. “The 2009 homeland security funds will ensure law enforcement and emergency service agencies can continue to equip and train the men and women on the front lines of public safety with the tools and resources necessary to protect our communities.”
- State Homeland Security Funds (SHSP) —- $11.8 million to enhance capabilities through planning, equipment, training and exercise activities. States must dedicate at least 25 percent of SHSP funds to law enforcement terrorism prevention activities.
- Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) —- $4.2 million to Memphis to build capabilities in high-threat, high-density urban areas across the country.
- Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) —- $2.8 million to Nashville to build capabilities in high-threat, high-density urban areas across the country.
- Metropolitan Medical Response (MMRS) —- $1.28 million to Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga to enhance mass casualty preparedness and response capabilities.
- Citizen Corps Program (CCP) —- $285,000 to engage citizens in community preparedness.
The Tennessee Office of Homeland Security will work with each of the 11 Homeland Security Districts to ensure the spending plans for the 2009 grants address the State’s overall homeland security goals and provide the best equipment to first responders.
- First Tennessee $1,219,797
- East Tennessee $2,987,845
- Southeast Tennessee $1,771,628
- Upper Cumberland $754,642
- Greater Nashville $3,171,628
- South Central Tennessee 1 $492,022
- North Central Tennessee $791,410
- South Central Tennessee 2 $513,064
- Northwest Tennessee $653,653
- Southwest Tennessee $629,218
- Memphis Area $3,709,050
Editor’s Note:
The map of Tennessee’s Homeland Security Districts below indicates the counties that comprise each district.
The Tennessee Department of Safety’s mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.