West Chester, PA (July 25, 2024) – An important emergency management information system in southern Chester County will be upgraded and expanded to serve more communities thanks to state funding secured by state Senators Carolyn Comitta and John Kane.
Avon Grove Regional Emergency Management (AGREM) received $20,000 in state grant funding to maintain and enhance the signal of 1670 AM, a locally managed community information station that broadcasts information on severe weather events, roadwork and road closures, regular public service messages, and reminders regarding emergency preparedness and safety.
As an emergency management organization, AGREM provides support to Avondale, West Grove, Penn, New London, Franklin, and London Britain and continues to expand to support municipalities in the Oxford area.
“In an emergency, access to timely, accurate and up-to-date information is critical for residents, families, and community members. For nearly a decade, AGREM has provided southern Chester County with a radio frequency to tune to for trusted, emergency information,” Comitta said. “I was happy to help secure funding to ensure that the station is maintained, expanded, and prepared to keep running in the future.”
“Keeping our local emergency and information outlets maintained and funded is absolutely vital for our community,” said Senator John Kane. “In times of emergency, having a reliable source of information can make all the difference in saving lives. This funding ensures that southern Chester County gets the updates they need to stay safe. It’s about looking out for our neighbors and making sure we’re all prepared for whatever comes our way.”
The funds will support the 1670 AM station by updating older components, investing in future maintenance, and acquiring spare parts, and increasing the signal to reach Elk Township and the Maryland state line. In addition, the funds will support web hosting and Internet and phone connections for 3 to 5 years and give AGREM the ability to manage broadcast messages remotely in case of severe weather or other challenges.
“It is rewarding to see AGREM recognized with support from our area representatives with this grant. Our organization has had local municipal, school district support, and support from Chester County Department of Emergency Services since our inception. The implementation of AGREM-1670 as a community service was a significant milestone. We’ve been able to use it during hurricanes, severe storms, a blizzard, and other significant events in our area to inform the community,” said David Flad, past president of AGREM. “The grant will support our ongoing operational expenses, help us to improve the reach of our current system, and maintain our ability to deliver this service 24×7 for the communities we serve.”
Originally envisioned and championed by the late Mike Predmore, AGREM 1670 AM serves as a reliable local source of information before, during, and after any type of emergency, natural disaster, or man-made event. It has been operating nonstop since its dedication in November 2015. Before that, the AGREM team worked for years to raise the funds, install the necessary equipment, and acquire the FCC licenses to make the system operational.
Today, 1670 AM continues to provide travelers and residents in the AGREM Community with important information while in their cars or when using a portable radio during a power outage.
Founded in 1999 in preparation for potential concerns related to the Y2K computer issue, AGREM is celebrating its 25th year of emergency management support to local municipalities in southern Chester County. A nonprofit organization, AGREM is supported by volunteers, annual membership dues, and tax-deductible donations. Learn more at my.agrem.org
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