By editorial staff
EMS1/Fire Rescue 1
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — AT&T and FirstNet Authority have added a new chapter to their commitment to first responders in a significant effort to strengthen public safety communications.
During a ceremonial signing event on February 13, key representatives from AT&T, FirstNet Authority, and Virginia emergency services officials came together to announce: 10 years of investment to evolve and expand FirstNet.
FirstNet Authority plans to invest $6.3 billion through the AT&T network agreement and an additional $2 billion in future enhancements to expand public security coverage.
Starting in March, FirstNet will be the exclusive wireless network providing uninterrupted priority and preemption to emergency responders across the entire AT&T 5G spectrum, extending these privileges to all 5G commercial frequencies, according to the release. This will be the first time.
The plan includes building thousands of new specially designed FirstNet cell sites across the country over the next two years, with an immediate goal of 1,000 new sites. The expansion is part of his broader 10-year initiative, which goes beyond an initial $6.3 billion investment and aims to enhance Band 14 coverage based on public safety needs and network performance. .
FirstNet will also develop a dedicated 5G core tailored for public safety to power 5G services, facilitate the transition of public safety’s Band 14 spectrum from LTE to 5G, and ensure advanced capabilities.
The network also expands the suite of mission-critical services such as voice, video, data, and location services, providing an enhanced alternative to traditional voice-only wireless systems and providing reliable support for public safety operations. We provide wireless support where possible.
The investment will also provide an upgrade to a dedicated fleet of deployable network assets with 5G connectivity on the horizon, aimed at significantly improving operational safety, security and resiliency for public safety personnel.
