Mid City Times

Published on August 18, 2024

As part of the City of Fort Worth’s initiative to enhance its 911 system, the city is actively recruiting for a 911 communications administrator. The position aims to provide a single point of contact for issues within the 911 system, ensuring optimal service for residents and visitors.

Currently, Fort Worth Police (FWPD), Fort Worth Fire (FWFD), and MedStar operate separate dispatch centers without a unified accountability structure. Studies suggest that improvements can be made by eliminating call transfers and creating a single dispatch center where FWPD, FWFD, and MedStar use the same technology in one location.

The primary goal is to establish a single owner responsible for public safety communications within the city. This includes exploring the feasibility of a co-located Communications Center. Additional goals focus on enhancing technology and coordination among emergency services.

The new emergency communications department will be led by the 911 communications administrator, who will oversee the development of Fort Worth's emergency medical dispatch system. This role will also serve as an advisor for all public safety emergency communications in the city. As part of this transition, current MedStar dispatch employees will join the city's workforce.

Assistant City Manager Valerie Washington stated, “Hiring a 911 communications administrator is just the start of getting the EMS system up and running within the City of Fort Worth and our Fire Department.” She added that building out this department would enhance service quality for residents and visitors while ensuring high-quality patient-centric care.

Fitch & Associates, hired by the Fort Worth City Council to evaluate and improve the current EMS model, will manage this transition from MedStar to FWFD over an anticipated timeline of 12 to 18 months. This process includes developing a communication plan for stakeholders and end users.

The EMS system transition is included in Fort Worth’s Fiscal Year 2025 recommended budget. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on this budget online via the city’s website.

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