ROCKFORD – The Cherry Valley Police Department’s command center has received $250,000 for upgrades, thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Investing in the renovation of the Cherry Valley Police Department’s command center is an investment in the safety and security of our community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Equipping our local first responders with the necessary resources to effectively address any situation is paramount to ensuring public safety.”

A squad room in the Cherry Valley Police Department will be turned into a unified command center for use in cases where law enforcement and emergency responders from multiple jurisdictions are called to help.

The renovation, financed through Stadelman’s efforts, will allow multiple agencies to easily plug in their laptops and sync emergency response efforts with large monitors, providing aerial views from drone feeds, surveillance footage and real-time images.

“This investment reflects our unwavering commitment to providing law enforcement personnel with the facilities and equipment they need to effectively carry out their duties and keep their community safe,” said Stadelman.

The command center will feature 16 work stations and five flat screen monitors. Construction is expected to be complete by June 30.

To learn more about the renovation, visit here.