The City of Bloomington is introducing a new emergency notification system designed to provide residents with faster updates about emergencies, safety concerns, and important community events.
The city announced its partnership with CodeRED, a communication service that will allow officials to send urgent messages directly to residents through phone calls, text messages, and emails.
New System Will Provide Emergency Notifications
According to city officials, CodeRED will be used to notify residents about a variety of situations that may affect the community, including:
- Severe weather events
- Water main breaks
- Public safety emergencies
- Other urgent situations requiring public awareness
Officials said the system will help ensure residents receive important information quickly, especially during events where timing is critical.
Residents Can Choose How They Receive Alerts
The CodeRED service is optional and free for residents to use.
After signing up, residents can select their preferred method of communication, including:
- Phone calls
- Text messages
- Email notifications
The system also allows users to register multiple locations, meaning residents can receive updates about more than one area that matters to them, such as their home, workplace, or another address.
Residents will also have the ability to choose the types of alerts they want to receive based on their interests and needs.
Alerts Will Include More Than Emergencies
While CodeRED will primarily focus on emergency notifications, city officials said the system will also help provide updates about other important activities happening throughout Bloomington.
Residents may receive information related to:
- Road construction projects
- Utility work
- Local disruptions
- Community events and updates
Officials said the expanded communication options will help residents stay informed about issues that could affect their daily routines.
City Approved Nearly $12,000 Contract
The Bloomington City Council approved the agreement with CodeRED last August.
The contract was approved at a cost of $11,897.18, with the option for up to four annual renewals. Each renewal will include a 5% annual increase, according to city officials.
City leaders said the investment will provide another tool for improving communication between local government and residents.
City Manager Highlights Importance of Quick Communication
Bloomington City Manager Jeff Jurgens said residents want timely information when events impact their families, neighborhoods, or everyday activities.
“We know people want information quickly, especially when it affects their family, neighborhood, or daily routine,” Jurgens said.
He added that CodeRED will give the city another direct way to communicate with residents during emergencies, construction projects, utility issues, and other situations that may affect the community.
Social Media Updates Coming With #BloomAlert
Beginning July 27, the City of Bloomington will also begin sharing emergency updates and other important community information through its social media platforms using the hashtag #BloomAlert.
Officials said combining CodeRED notifications with social media updates will provide residents with multiple ways to stay connected and receive important information.
The city is encouraging residents to register for the free service so they can receive timely alerts about events that may impact their homes, neighborhoods, and daily lives.
