Texas Border Business
The McAllen Mayor and City Commission has authorized City Manager Isaac Tawil to enter into contract with Motorola Solutions for the purchase of five-hundred thirty (530) next generation portable radio communication systems with enhanced communication abilities designated for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Departments.
This is the City’s first communication system upgrade since its acquisition on December 29, 2015.
The 2015 acquisition provided for the transition of the City of McAllen’s radio communication system to P25 standardsand from analog to digital communications. P25 is short for Project 25 and APCO-25 (Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-25). This is a suite of standards for interoperable Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems designed to create interoperability among different agencies and jurisdictions adding the ability to transfer data as well as voice.
This upgrade will provide our first responders with alternate frequency access. Alternate frequency access provides a second means by which first responders may access their communication frequencies when primary channels become inaccessible. These radio communication systems are SMARTCONNECT Long-Term Evolution (LTE) wireless interfaced equipped. This capacity will provide critically enhanced alternate frequency access. Additionally, the approved systems are equipped with SMARTLOCATE (GPS) software.
Statement of Mayor Javier Villalobos:
“Public safety is our top priority. By investing in advanced communication technology, we are ensuring that our first responders have the tools they need to protect our community and themselves effectively and without interruption.”
Statement of City Manager Isaac Tawil:
“This upgrade represents a significant step forward for McAllen. It’s not just about technology—it’s about reliability and resilience in times of emergency. Our teams deserve the best, and this investment delivers that.“
Statement Police Chief Victor Rodriguez:
“For law enforcement, clear and dependable communication is the lifeline of public safety. These new systems add to our confidence and reliability of that lifeline.”
Fire Chief Juan Gloria:
“When seconds count, communication is critical. These enhanced radios will give our firefighters the confidence that theycan stay connected, even in the most challenging situations.“
