LTE  |  2020-02-15

New FirstNet Cell Sites Launch Across New Hampshire to Support Public Safety

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

New infrastructure will help advance public safety, improve connectivity for area residents and visitors.

Yesterday, Gov. Chris Sununu and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) joined AT&T to celebrate a major boost in wireless communications for New Hampshire first responders – the addition of new, purpose-built cell sites and 100+ other network enhancements. This new infrastructure is a part of the FirstNet network expansion taking place across the state, bringing increased coverage, capacity and capabilities for public safety. Plus, it’s giving first responders unthrottled access to the fastest overall network experience.

FirstNet is a dedicated broadband platform for public safety, by public safety,” said FirstNet Authority Executive Director Edward Parkinson. “We worked hand-in-hand with New Hampshire’s public safety community to understand their needs for the network. And these cell sites are a prime example of how that input and feedback is becoming reality. We look forward to supporting New Hampshire’s first responders’ use of FirstNet to help them save lives and protect communities.”

Currently ahead of schedule, the FirstNet build has already brought New Hampshire first responders:

  • Purpose-built network enhancements: 4 new cell sites – located in Pembroke, Stoddard, Rumney and North Hampton – have launched. These sites were constructed using Band 14 spectrum, as well as AT&T commercial spectrum. Band 14 is nationwide, high quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. AT&T also deployed Band 14 in more than 100 towns across New Hampshire including Keene, Littleton, Manchester and Portsmouth.
  • Unparalleled emergency support: New Hampshire agencies on FirstNet also have 24/7 access to a nationwide fleet of 76 deployable network assets. These portable cell sites can either be deployed for planned events or in emergencies at no additional charge.Public safety-specific advanced capabilities: FirstNet is the only nationwide platform that gives first responders always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data. This is like giving public safety communications the “lights and sirens” treatment so that they stay connected, no matter the emergency.
  • Statewide network support: Using all AT&T LTE bands, FirstNet already covers over 99% of the U.S. population today. In addition to the FirstNet build, AT&T also launched 6 other new cell sites across the state this past year. All new sites and other network enhancements – as well as our preexisting cell sites – are further elevating coverage and communications for public safety and the communities they serve.

Picture: Courtesey of FirstNet