Multi-Municipal Project Improves Safety

Emergency vehicles can expect safer and more efficient travel through Millcreek and Summit Townships thanks to a multi-municipal collaboration project. This project administered by the Erie Area Council of Governments, on behalf of Millcreek and Summit, will complete the installation of Emergency Vehicle Preemption equipment at 14 signalized intersections through the townships. The Erie Area Council of Governments, an association of Erie County municipalities, provides multi-municipal projects, program and services that enhance operations, reduce duplication, decrease costs, improve efficiency and leverage resources for its members. “Thanks to our membership in the EACOG, we were able to partner with Summit to complete the purchase and installation of emergency preemption equipment that has proven technology, is PennDOT approved and is compatible with existing equipment at a low cost.”  remarked John Groh, Millcreek Township supervisor. The ultimate goal of this project is to enhance the safety of residents, visitors and emergency personnel traveling in the two townships.

Township employees partnered on the installation of each receiver with Millcreek Township’s Traffic Electrician, Jeffery Tenney, providing field training to Summit Township’s Traffic Technician, Mike Hanas. The partnership was designed to share expertise across municipal boundaries so that both communities would be prepared to install and maintain the equipment for the long term.  Supervisors from both communities praised the cooperative effort. Summit Township supervisor, Jack Lee applauded the successful partnership, “this project has allowed us to build a great relationship with the Millcreek staff members and we have gained a great appreciation for each other’s knowledge and experience.”   

  With this project, all 80 signalized intersections in these communities are now equipped with emergency preemption systems that are compatible with existing equipment at other intersections throughout Erie County.  Additionally, ten emergency vehicles are now equipped with emitters to control the signals.  This project was funded in part through a Multi-Municipal Collaboration grant from the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority.