Knoxville, TN (WOKI) The Tennessee Highway Patrol is set to debut new dispatch phone numbers for several districts as it upgrades its phone system.
Officials say the agency will start using the new phone system on Wednesday, bringing with it an improvement in reliability, security and performance for calls from the public and first responders.
“This upgrade represents a major step forward in strengthening our communications infrastructure,” said THP Colonel Matt Perry. “When Tennesseans call for help, they can count on a clear, secure connection so we can respond quickly and effectively. It’s another way we’re improving safety and service for the motoring public.”
THP says the upgrade will transition its phone system to one that routes inbound calls over a private, dedicated network instead of the public Internet. The change, officials say, resolves potential connectivity issues and results in a stronger call quality and more dependable communications.
Beginning Wednesday, the following dispatch numbers will go into effect:
- Knoxville District: 865-895-6950
- Chattanooga District: 423-242-6419
- Nashville District: 615-986-4986
- Jackson District: 731-215-6831
The public can still reach THP by dialing *THP (847) from any cell phone.
