Oregon Upgrading 911 System for Smartphones and Faster Emergency Response

Oregon is modernizing its 911 emergency system to better support smartphones and improve emergency response times across the state , according to the Central Oregon Daily News. The current system has handled more than 5,000 calls daily for over 30 years but relies on outdated technology that struggles with modern mobile devices. Officials say the new Next Generation 911 system will use advanced mapping and geographic data to route calls more accurately to the correct emergency dispatch center.

The upgrade is designed to reduce delays caused when cellphones connect to towers across county or state lines, sometimes sending calls to the wrong 911 center.

State officials say the new system will improve call routing, strengthen reliability during disasters, and enhance coordination between emergency centers and neighboring states. The modernization is being funded through existing 911 fees already charged on monthly phone bills.