What’s the news? Tennessee first responders are getting a major boost in their wireless communications thanks to the FirstNet network expansion currently underway by AT&T. As part of the FirstNet network expansion, we’ve added new, purpose-built cell sites and other network enhancements across the state. It’s giving first responders on FirstNet – America’s public safety network – access to always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data.

• New FirstNet cell sites: Areas currently benefitting from new, purpose-built sites include Altamont, Bloomington Springs, Byrdstown, Clairfield, Crossville, Gainsboro, Graysville, Jamestown, Lafayette, McMinnville, Monterey, Readyville, Red Boiling Springs, Reliance and Sneedville.

• Public safety-specific network enhancements: We’ve also added nationwide, high-quality Band 14 spectrum on 900+ existing sites across Tennessee to give first responders dedicated connectivity when needed. Areas currently benefitting include Ashland City, Chattanooga, Columbia, Dickson, Gallatin, Knoxville, Lenoir City, Maryville, Memphis, Nashville, Rogersville, Sevierville and Watertown.

“Tennessee’s first responders deserve reliable coverage across the state to help them effectively and efficiently address incidents. And with FirstNet, that’s exactly what they’re getting. We have a responsibility unlike any other network provider, and couldn’t be more pleased to support the public safety mission by bringing Tennessee’s first responders – and residents – greater access to the connectivity they need.” – Joelle Phillips, President, AT&T Tennessee.

Why is this important? We look at FirstNet as the most important wireless network in the country because it’s serving our first responders. And unlike commercial networks, FirstNet provides real, dedicated mobile broadband when needed. Simply put, the FirstNet build is about where first responders need connectivity. To ensure AT&T and the First Responder Network Authority (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. This helps ensure Tennessee first responders connect to the critical information they need – every day and in every emergency.

Both AT&T and the FirstNet Authority have committed significant resources to build a network that will help improve communications among first responders and members of the public safety community. We are only 3 years into the initial FirstNet network expansion, and will continue to evolve, harden and innovate with the best technology to meet public safety's ongoing needs over the next 20+ years.

What are the benefits to first responders? Building upon AT&T’s current and planned investments in Tennessee, we’re actively extending the reach of FirstNet to give agencies large and small the reliable, unthrottled connectivity and modern communications tools they need. 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. We look at Band 14 as public safety’s VIP lane. In an emergency, this band – or lane – can be cleared and locked just for FirstNet subscribers. That means only those on the FirstNet network will be able to access Band 14 spectrum, further elevating their connected experience and emergency response.

How does this help Tennessee residents? This new infrastructure will also help improve the overall coverage experience for AT&T wireless customers in Tennessee. Residents, visitors and businesses can take advantage of the AT&T spectrum bands, as well as Band 14 when additional capacity is available.

What is FirstNet? FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. Shaped by the vision of Congress and the first responder community following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, FirstNet stands above commercial offerings. It is built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the FirstNet Authority – an independent agency within the federal government. The FirstNet network is providing public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities enable FirstNet to help fire, EMS, law enforcement and other public safety personnel save lives and protect their communities.

Edward Parkinson
CEO, FirstNet Authority
“FirstNet is the only broadband network that puts public safety first and provides coverage where they need it most. The FirstNet Authority is proud to serve Tennessee’s first responders and help deliver broadband communications to rural towns and communities across the Volunteer State. We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the state’s public safety community to advance their network and provide the communications they need to save lives and protect communities.”

Where can I find more information? Go here to learn more about how AT&T is supporting Tennessee. For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com. And go here for more FirstNet news.