PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov

City of Pharr Introduces Cutting-Edge Video to 9-1-1 Service Powered by Carbyne

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2024

Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr proudly unveiled its latest advancement in emergency response technology with the launch of the Video to 9-1-1 service, developed in collaboration with Carbyne. As the first of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley, this innovative software provides an unparalleled level of support to individuals in distress.

The Video to 9-1-1 service is designed to complement traditional emergency protocols by offering callers the ability to transmit live video footage directly from their cellphones to dispatchers. Any cellphone equipped with a camera will be able to use this service. Upon initiating a call, individuals will receive a secure link granting access to their cellphone camera, enabling dispatchers to assess the situation in real-time and relay critical information to first responders traveling to the scene.

Funded by the City of Pharr‘s general fund, the implementation of this software represents an investment of $49,900.

“We’re always looking at new ways to progress the city and provide residents with a better quality of life, and a safer community,” Director of Public Safety Communications Kenneth Ennis said. “We’re able to provide a better outcome for them when they have their emergencies,” Ennis added.

Following a period of soft launch on May 1st, during which the software underwent rigorous trials and testing, the official launch occurred on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

A video explaining how the software works can be found below: