UPDATE FirstNet announced yesterday it is launching the first phase of a network improvement through a series of strategic investments totaling more than $8 billion over 10 years. FirstNet and its network partner, AT&T, joined to unveil the latest network investment of $6.3 billion, delivering full 5G capabilities on FirstNet, expanded mission-critical services, and enhanced coverage. The FirstNet Authority anticipates an additional $2 billion in ongoing investments dedicated to coverage enhancements, which is currently under discussion by the parties.
Starting in March, FirstNet said it will be the first and only wireless network to provide America’s first responders with “always-on priority and preemption” across 5G, expanding to include all AT&T 5G commercial spectrum. AT&T is deploying a new standalone FirstNet 5G network core built on the latest industry standards with dedicated public safety functionality and features.
The FirstNet Authority and AT&T said they will continue to work with public safety officials and government stakeholders to grow and enhance the network. The plan offered by FirstNet is to build thousands of new, purpose-built cell sites across the country – including 1,000 new sites within the next two years. Beyond the initial $6.3 billion investment, the FirstNet Authority anticipates additional investments over the next decade to deliver Band 14 coverage enhancements. These coverage investments will reflect public safety factors and network considerations, all in support of public safety response operations.
AT&T said it plans to expand mission-critical services — voice, video, data, and location — to complement public safety’s localized, voice-only radio systems with reliable, wireless connectivity. Officials said they want to ready the network to evolve beyond 5G, while remaining focused on public safety’s unique needs and emerging requirements when implementing future technological advancements.
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