POST FALLS - Frontier Communications recently completed a $406,000 project with the Post Falls Police Department to upgrade telecommunications equipment at the department's 911 dispatch center.

The department wanted what's called "Next Generation 911," which includes texting and video capabilities. The new system Frontier sold and installed is designed to help the 911 center with call receiving, mapping, and real-time reporting.

"Law enforcement agencies continue to seek technologies that are highly effective with respect to public safety and increase their capabilities to serve this critical role in the community," said Tom Murn, general manager for Frontier in Coeur d'Alene.

This upgraded equipment provides increased capability of handling wireless 911 calls.

An estimated 70 percent of all 911 calls are now made from mobile hand-held devices, yet traditional 911 systems support voice-centric fixed-base communications only, and are not designed to transfer and receive text messaging, videos or photos.

One of the features of the new system is its ability to map the exact location of cellphone users. This makes the dispatcher's job easier and saves time for emergency responders.

In addition, having a mapping application which plots 911 callers helps dispatchers locate people who call 911 but for some reason can't speak.

"Frontier has proven to be a true partner in working with our office and the 911 center," said Scot Haug, the Post Falls police chief. "The installations were well planned and managed from start to finish. This resulted in minimal downtime - a very critical element when working with 911 and our citizens."

Frontier's enhanced 911 products are currently in use in 28 states.