ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- The St. Joseph County Emergency Management Agency announced a $1.5 million upgrade to the Early Outdoor Warning Siren System has begun the build out process.

EMA officials say the upgrade includes 67 sirens, plus the addition of five new locations using ARP funds.

The upgrade entails all-new electrical components including radio receivers, Digi-repeaters, antennae, back up batteries, mother boards, and two command control centers.

It also includes recalibration of moving mechanical parts, greasing of gears, new grounding straps, battery boxes, and trimming of trees if necessary.

The sirens will be tested on a short cycle to ensure they are working and operational.

Officials say the testing will usually occur as the service trucks are on site at the siren pole location and will be short in duration.

The first Thursday of the month testing of the entire St. Joseph County system will continue as usual.

When completed, EMA officials say it will be one of the most complete and comprehensive siren systems in the state.