County 911 Project Aims To Boost Response Accuracy

Crawford County is set to launch a countywide effort to improve its emergency response mapping system. The 911 office announced a Geographic Information System (GIS) Remediation Project that will update address and location data used by emergency responders across the region.

Funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants, the initiative will enhance the accuracy of the digital maps that guide dispatchers and emergency crews to homes, apartments, and businesses during emergencies.

The project is being conducted to meet requirements set by the Missouri 911 Service Board, which mandates updated and verified mapping data to support more precise call routing and emergency dispatch.

Starting next week, field technicians from SDR Inc., the county’s contracted mapping firm, will begin driving through towns and cities to verify addresses—particularly in areas with apartment complexes or multi-unit buildings. The crews will work during daylight hours, using a clearly marked 911 field vehicle bearing white signs with red “911 Mapping” lettering.

Crews will stop briefly in front of buildings to check and document posted address numbers. They will not knock on doors or engage with residents. In cases where an address is missing or unreadable, the location will be flagged for further review. Technicians may exit the vehicle to assess building layouts but will not enter private property or trespass.

Officials expect the fieldwork to be completed by the end of April 2025.