Mackinac County emergency services get a boost
Enbridge Fueling Futures program continues community investment
April 2, 2025
Local communities in the Straits of Mackinac will benefit from a recent grant bolstering emergency response capabilities.
Mackinac County 911 & Emergency Management recently received a $75,000 grant through the Enbridge Fueling Futures program.
The funding will support efforts to advance emergency response across the region by facilitating upgrades to public safety communications and the purchase of new equipment.
“The improvements will help emergency notification capabilities for first responders, 911 dispatchers, local agencies, and state emergency support teams,” said Bryce Tracy, coordinator, Mackinac County 911 & Emergency Management.
Funding also provided for installation of an 800MHz base radio at the Enbridge Straits Maritime Operations Center. The radio will facilitate direct, secure communication among federal, state and local emergency response agencies.
Enbridge’s Lauren Brown (far left) and Escanaba Technical Supervisor Brian VanOss (right) present a check to Bryce Tracy, Mackinac County 911 & Emergency Management.
“By improving system reliability and expanding access to multiple communication networks, first responders will have better tools to coordinate life-saving operations, especially in high-risk and densely populated areas,” noted Tracy.
The grant reflects the Enbridge Fueling Futures program’s ongoing mission to invest in community well-being by supporting safety, sustainability and resilience.
“We welcome the opportunity to partner with first responders,” said Lauren Brown, Enbridge community engagement advisor.
“They are critical to keeping our region safe and share our ongoing commitment to community.”
Making a positive impact
In 2024, Enbridge invested almost $700,000 in Michigan through its Enbridge Fueling Futures program.
Through its Safe Community First Responder Program, Enbridge in 2024 donated $1.1 million to 175 American emergency responder organizations that serve the communities throughout its operational area.
Such donations support the purchase of safety equipment, professional training and safety educational programs.
“As a Michigan native and resident, I am proud to work for a company that prioritizes its commitment to communities and the vital role of first responders.”
—Lauren Brown, Enbridge community engagement advisor
“We are grateful to Enbridge and the Enbridge Fueling Futures program for their support in advancing our emergency response capabilities,” said Tracy.
“This investment in modern, secure, and interoperable communication systems is essential to helping ensure the safety and effectiveness of our emergency response teams and the communities we serve.”
Learn more about how this investment will help Mackinac County 911 & Emergency Management.
