New FirstNet Cell Site Launches in Mule Creek Junction to Support Public Safety
New Infrastructure Will Help Advance Public Safety, Improve Connectivity for Area Residents and Visitors
Wyoming’s first responders are getting a major boost in their wireless communications with the addition of a new, purpose-built cell site. The site – located near the intersection of Highway 18 and Highway 85 in Mule Creek Junction – is part of the FirstNet network expansion taking place in Wyoming, which is bringing increased coverage, capacity and capability to first responders across the state. Plus, the new FirstNet site will give Niobrara County first responders access to the fastest overall network experience.1
FirstNet is the nationwide, wireless communications platform dedicated to America’s first responders and public safety community. Mandated by Congress, it’s designed to strengthen and modernize public safety communications, helping first responders connect to the critical information they need – every day and in every emergency. FirstNet is built with AT&T* in a public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) – an independent agency within the federal government.
To ensure AT&T and the FirstNet Authority are putting coverage and capacity where first responders need it most, the FirstNet build is being done with direct feedback from state and public safety officials. Mule Creek Junction was selected for a FirstNet site based on the high traffic in the remote area and the potential need for emergency response and communication in those instances.
Mule Creek Junction’s site announcement follows similar announcements in the state of Wyoming, which was one of the first states in the country to opt-in to FirstNet. The site is being constructed using Band 14 spectrum as well as AT&T commercial spectrum bands. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. It provides public safety with a dedicated lane of connectivity when needed. Band 14 has also been added on existing sites across Wyoming.
“The FirstNet site at Mule Creek Junction is another example of how FirstNet is delivering connectivity for first responders where they need it most,” said Terri Nikole Baca, president, AT&T Wyoming. “Having greater access and connectivity in this area will make travelers, visitors and residents safer in the event of an emergency and we couldn’t be prouder to support that endeavor.”
“FirstNet is a dedicated broadband network for public safety, by public safety,” said Jeff Bratcher, Chief Technology and Operations Officer, FirstNet Authority. “We worked hand-in-hand with Wyoming’s public safety community to understand their needs for the network. And this cell site is a prime example of how that input and feedback is becoming reality. We look forward to supporting Niobrara County first responders’ use of FirstNet to help them save lives and protect communities.”
In addition to further elevating public safety’s connected experience in support of their emergency response, the new site will also help improve the overall coverage experience for AT&T wireless customers in the area. Residents, visitors and businesses can take advantage of the AT&T spectrum bands, as well as Band 14 when additional capacity is available.
For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com.
1Based on AT&T analysis of Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data average download speeds for Q3 2019. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.
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