Emergency responders across the U.S. face ongoing challenges connecting legacy radio systems with emerging broadband networks. To address this, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Public Safety Communications Research (PSCR) Division has launched the BroadImPort project, which adapts lessons from Europe’s BroadPort initiative. The effort leverages 3GPP mission-critical standards to improve interoperability between agencies, enabling first responders to better share voice, video, and data across jurisdictions.

BroadImPort goes beyond technical solutions by piloting operational innovations such as inter-agency campaign planning and open demonstrations with public safety stakeholders. Supported by Frequentis USA Inc. and Nemergent Solutions, the project integrates fieldwork from U.S. agencies to ensure solutions are scalable, standards-based, and responsive to real-world emergency needs. This initiative underscores NIST’s role in leading domestic public safety innovation while incorporating proven international practices, ultimately laying the foundation for a nationwide transformation in emergency communications.

Contact Information

Technical Contact
Alison Kahn
Phone: (303) 497-3523

NIST Headquarters
100 Bureau Drive
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
301-975-2000

Source Press Release: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2025/05/advancing-us-public-safety-innovation-nist-pscr-facilitates-broadimport