Connecting North Dakota’s First Responders
When every second counts, first responders need clear, instant communication—no matter where they are or who they’re working with. SIRN bridges radio gaps among North Dakota’s firefighters, police officers, EMS, and others, empowering them to save lives with secure, reliable, and next-gen technology.
Communication Without Borders—Safety Without Limits
For decades, public safety teams in North Dakota relied on a patchwork of outdated communication systems to respond to critical situations. First responders could be standing face-to-face at an emergency scene yet be unable to talk on the same network.
Despite that radio silence, the voices of concerned first responders were ultimately heard loud and clear across the state. In response, SIRN was created through legislative action and is set for completion in 2027.
SIRN by the Numbers:
Sounding the SIRN: Project History & Timeline
North Dakota’s journey to a unified, encrypted, and future-ready communications network spans over a decade of careful study, legislative support, and phased implementation. Here are some key milestones:
| Year | Update |
|---|---|
| 2011 | An exploratory study highlighted interoperability issues statewide. |
| 2012 | North Dakota formed the Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee (SIEC). |
| 2013 | The legislative assembly officially codified the SIEC into law. |
| 2014 | As the state prepared to acquire a shared radio network that automatically assigns users to available frequencies (a “trunked” system), it chose to adopt APCO Project 25 (P25)—a set of standards designed to ensure interoperability. |
| 2015 | The legislature authorized and directed North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) to conduct a strategic study for feasibility. |
| 2016 | Televate provided recommended rollout steps for North Dakota. |
| 2017 | The legislature passed HB 1178, officially authorizing the SIRN program. |
| 2018 | NDIT and other stakeholders engaged in project preparation and alignment. |
| 2019 | North Dakota authorized $120 million in funding before awarding the project to Motorola. |
| 2020-2023 | The state executed a phased update of centralized emergency call centers and expanded key tower sites. |
| 2024-2025 | North Dakota has continued to progress toward full statewide deployment and completion to meet its 2027 target date. |
FAQs for Teams Transitioning to SIRN
If your agency or department is preparing to transition to SIRN, here are some basic things you need to know.
Who manages the SIRN project?
The SIEC oversees SIRN, with NDIT leading operations and implementation. The transition is coordinated by your local emergency call center (PSAP) based on tower availability.
Will SIRN work during natural disasters or power outages?
Yes. SIRN infrastructure includes backup power systems and hardened tower sites designed to ensure reliable operation during emergencies such as blizzards, floods, or wildfires.
Which counties have fully transitioned to SIRN?
The following counties have successfully transitioned:
- Burleigh
- Stark
- Grand Forks
- Ward
- Williams
Which counties are next to transition?
Upcoming transitions are planned for:
- Bottineau
- Renville
- Rolette
- Traill
- Steele
- Richland
When will my agency transition to SIRN?
Transition timing is coordinated by your local emergency call center (PSAP) based on tower availability. Please contact them or Jared Lemieux, SIRN Administrator, for the latest information.
Are volunteer fire departments and rural EMS included in the SIRN rollout?
Yes—SIRN is designed for all public safety entities, including volunteer and rural departments. Funding assistance and planning support are available to help ensure their successful transition.
What happens if my current radio doesn’t support P25?
To work on SIRN, radios must support P25, trunking, and key features like wireless encryption rekeying.
What training is available for using the new SIRN radios?
Statewide training is being coordinated as part of each regional deployment. It includes hands-on use, maintenance basics, and communication protocols. Contact your local emergency call center (PSAP) or Jared Lemieux, SIRN Administrator, to learn about upcoming sessions.
Can we continue to use analog radios during the transition?
Analog radios may still function for local use but will not be able to operate on the SIRN network. Agencies are encouraged to upgrade to P25-compliant equipment as soon as possible to maintain interoperability.
What is the reimbursement application deadline for SIRN radios?
Departments are eligible for a $1,500 reimbursement per radio, so please submit your reimbursement documentation by January 31, 2026. For more information, contact Jared Lemieux, SIRN Administrator.
How else can we prepare for the transition?
To stay up to date with the latest developments, coordinate with your local emergency call center (PSAP) to learn about upcoming meetings.
The Future of First Response Starts Here
SIRN marks a transformative leap in public safety communications for North Dakota. Through the integration of advanced technology, legislative backing, and collaborative governance, it signals a bold step toward strengthening lifesaving capabilities across the state.
Have further questions on funding, scheduling, technical support, or anything else? Please contact us!
Primary Contact
Jared Lemieux, SIRN Administrator
Email: jarlemieux@nd.gov
Phone: 701-328-6097