FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oak Harbor, WA — September 22, 2025, ICOM 9-1-1 is excited to announce on Wednesday 9/17/25, the commencement of the Little Mountain Radio Tower Extension Project, a transformative initiative designed to enhance 9-1-1 communication infrastructure and elevate broadcasting capabilities for the region. This major undertaking marks a bold step toward improved local connectivity, greater public safety, and expanded access to information.
Project Overview
The extension of the Little Mountain radio tower, standing proudly atop the region’s namesake peak, aims to boost the reach, reliability, and service quality of public safety radio transmissions across Skagit and Island County. ICOM 9-1-1 is leading the project alongside the city of Mount Vernon and telecommunications partners, with plans to launch the service by the end of 2025.
The new extension will raise the current tower height by 30 feet to a total of 160 feet, accommodating state-of-the-art broadcasting equipment and strengthening signal coverage throughout even the most remote corners of south Camano & south Whidbey Islands. Equipment will be atop the Little Mountain Tower and be able to come back to the tower that is known as Bayview which is located in southern Whidbey Island.
Background, Community Need & Benefits
ICOM 9-1-1 Radio Engineers sought to improve infrastructure reliability for communication between 9-1-1 Telecommunicators and First Responders. The current radio infrastructure has towers on Camano & Whidbey Island. This project improves the dependability of the radio system, especially when it is crucial during emergencies. The increased height of the tower enables direct connectivity through microwave dish to the Bayview Tower that is located in South Whidbey.
Partnerships and Investments
The radio tower extension represents a significant investment in the radio infrastructure for Public Safety, with a substantial amount of funding sourced with the help of Washington State Rep. Dave Paul and state legislation. Additional funding came from ICOM 9-1-1’s budget.
Voices from the Community
Chief Nicholas Walsh of South Whidbey Fire/EMS said “We are proud to see ICOM taking a leadership role in this project. It will make a big difference in response and safety on South Whidbey.”
“Reliable 911 service is critical for our community and our first responders. We’re pleased that investments in updated infrastructure are in progress, and we look forward to having stronger, more dependable radio coverage everywhere on Camano Island.” - Jason Allen, Chief - Camano Island Fire & Rescue
Timeline and Key Milestones
The project will proceed in several phases, including:
Prework: funding, studies, agreements and permitting started December 2023
Structural Extension: Tower height increased, and reinforcement began 9/17/2025
Equipment Installation: Integration of equipment on going until 10/31/2025
Testing and Commissioning: Comprehensive system testing planned for month of November 2025
Project Completion and In-service: Anticipated by the end of December 2025
Looking to the Future
As ICOM 9-1-1 positions itself for continued growth and innovation, the expanded radio tower stands tall as a symbol of progress, unity, and preparedness for our region.
For more information about the Little Mountain Radio Tower Extension Project, please contact:
Sofia Kohfield
Executive Director of ICOM 9-1-1
sofia@icom911.org
www.icom911.org
About ICOM 9-1-1 :
ICOM 9-1-1 is committed to improving public safety communications throughout the region. Its mission is to “With integrity and respect we provide superior 911 public safety services with professionalism, compassion and efficiency to the citizens and public safety responders of Island County. Striving to do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason.”