NASHVILLE (AP) - The state has announced an agreement with Motorola Solutions Inc. for a statewide radio system for state troopers.

Under $39.2 million appropriated by the General Assembly, radios will be upgraded in the Tennessee Highway Patrol Chattanooga, Fall Branch and Knoxville districts. It's the first phase of the project replacing a system more than 30 years old.

Officials said it would help troopers communicate with authorities in Kentucky, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

THP Col. Tracy Trott said the lack of a reliable communication system has been an issue for troopers for decades.

Officials said the new system also will help communications between troopers and similar Motorola radio operations used in cities including Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis, Jackson and Franklin.