San Diego, TX – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $2,965,800 for a new Duval County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The funds will be used to provide Duval County’s fire department, first responders, and emergency services with a new state-of-the-art facility. The EOC will allow all county department heads to work together during a major disaster for proper and efficient Incident Command System (ICS) response planning.

The multi-agency Emergency Operations Center will serve as a regional facility that would serve as the Duval County Sheriff and Emergency Management Coordinator’s primary office. In addition, the facility will also offer office space to house the Texas Department of Public Safety, U.S. Border Patrol, and fire and medical emergency service.

“It is important that we show our appreciation to all the first responders in Duval County and across the nation – not only for the job they do every day, but for their continued sacrifices during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial that we do our best to provide these men and women with the best facilities possible so that they perform their duties efficiently and safely,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This Emergency Operations Center will enhance operations and help provide quicker response times to the more than 11,200 residents of Duval County who will  directly benefit from the construction of this Emergency Operations Center. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to secure critical funding for our nation’s first responders.”

“On behalf of Duval County, I would like to thank U S Congressman Henry Cuellar for helping us acquire the funding for the Duval County Emergency Operations Center.  This is a great opportunity for Duval County in that we will now be able to house all law enforcement agencies under one roof.  This new facility will allow all departments better communication in working together.  This facility will have a training center for all officers,” said Duval County Judge Arnoldo Cantu. “The Sheriff’s Office is very outdated and there is no room for growth.  Moving the Department into this facility will allow Sheriff Ramirez the opportunity to make the necessary upgrades.  It is important to note that the jail will remain at the courthouse. Again, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Duval County cannot thank you enough.  We are very grateful to have you as our new Congressman!  It is unbelievable what you have done for Duval County in such a short period of time. Looking for great things to come!”

The new Duval County EOC will provide local, state, and federal first responders and law enforcement agencies a common facility that enables the collaboration of resources and information to mitigate and respond to catastrophic events, disasters, border security-related issues, and regional emergencies. This coordination of agencies will result in faster response times and a higher quality service for the residents of the county.