The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) and officials in five states announced an upgrade in coverage. Maryland, Vermont, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Hampshire all added sites to enhance the public safety broadband network throughout the Northeast, reported RR Media Group.
In Maryland, eight new cell sites were launched using Band 14 spectrum, as well as AT&T commercial spectrum. “I am excited to see FirstNet expanding coverage and tower sites in the state of Maryland,” said Pete Landon, director, Maryland Governor’s Office of Homeland Security. “Given Maryland’s diverse geography, from beaches to mountains and the vast Chesapeake Bay, FirstNet’s innovative technology brings us to a whole new level of connectivity and reliability.”
AT&T also launched two new, purpose-built cell sites in Vermont plus 62 sites in 52 towns to boost commercial service throughout the state, according to RR Media Group. “We’ve always known improved wireless connectivity and cell coverage are critical to the success of our students, businesses and first responders, but it has become even more evident throughout this pandemic,” said Gov. Phil Scott. “Closing the digital divide between Vermont communities is more important than ever before, and we appreciate AT&T’s partnership in these efforts.”
In Pennsylvania, AT&T deployed FirstNet sites in three counties, including improving data speeds and call pre-emption services for EMS and firefighters. “FirstNet has opened up a new level of data transmission service for the public safety world,” said Rich Caschera, North Central Regional Task Force.
Delaware received eight new sites across three communities, including improved coverage at the University of Delaware and for a business district in Sussex County, plus for emergency personnel. “I am pleased to see FirstNet staying true to its promise of expanding coverage in our area with the new site builds,” said Jay Jones, president, Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. “As a third-generation firefighter, this technology and service bring us to a whole new level of fire suppression. We’ve been able to get reliable coverage in areas where we’ve previously struggled. With 60 volunteer fire companies in the state, knowing our members can easily subscribe to public safety’s network, it’s changing the game for us.”
According to RR Media Group, in New Hampshire, FirstNet and AT&T launched on-site deployable capability while providing AT&T phones to essential and critical employees assigned throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The New Hampshire State Police will also test 40 Sonim Technologies devices with analytics collected through NetMotion to gain a better understanding of AT&T statewide coverage.
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