(ATLANTA) – The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, on behalf of the Governor Brian Kemp, recently awarded a $54,000 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) project to Upson County for the purchase and installation of six outdoor weather warning sirens.

“We are working with our local communities to give them the latest communication tools that are labor and time savers allowing them to focus on being ready to respond to a severe weather event,” said GEMA/HS Director Homer Bryson.

The amount awarded includes a federal share of $40,500. The remainder will come from a state share of $4,500 and a local share of $8,100.

This award is part of the FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funds to state agencies and local governments.

HMPG projects reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from the effects of natural hazards by breaking the repetitive cycle of destruction and reconstruction. These funds were made possible as a result of Upson County’s participation and adoption of the Upson County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.