PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s 9-1-1 Coordination Board has awarded a new contract to CenturyLink to provide Next Generation 911 services to the state.

Board members approved the contract at its Friday meeting. The five-year contract, with a five-year renewal period, is worth $34 million during the 10-year period.

 “The board has done excellent work in completing this process,” said Craig Price, the Cabinet Secretary for Department of Public Safety. “A working 9-1-1 system is crucial to the state in order for emergency responders to assist our citizens in times of need.  We look forward to partnering with CenturyLink in order to provide Next Generation 911 services to South Dakota.”

In January, the 9-1-1 Coordination Board sought new proposals for the state’s 9-1-1 services. Watertown Police Chief Lee McPeek, who is the 9-1-1  board chairman, said CenturyLink offered the best plan.

“CenturyLink stood out as the top responder with its detailed proposal and competitive pricing for 9-1-1 services,” McPeek said. “We look forward to a smooth transition to CenturyLink by the end of December 2019.”

NextGen Communications, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of New York based Comtech Telecommunications Corporation, is the current provider for 9-1-1 services in South Dakota. Its contract expires this December.

The 9-1-1 Coordination Board is a board of the Department of Public Safety.