What’s the news? Garden Valley’s first responders are getting a major boost in their wireless communications thanks to the FirstNet network expansion currently underway by AT&T. We’ve added a new, purpose-built cell site– located between Valley and Boise Counties. This new site is 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.

Why is this important? We consider FirstNet the most important wireless network in the country because it’s serves our first responders. And unlike commercial networks, FirstNet provides dedicated mobile broadband. 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 guided by direct feedback from state and public safety officials. This helps ensure Idaho responders connect to the critical information they need – every day and in every emergency. Located in a remote, forested area of Idaho, Garden Valley’s mountainous landscape makes it a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts, particularly white-water rafters.

What are the benefits to first responders? Building upon AT&T’s current and planned investments in Idaho, we’re actively extending the reach of FirstNet to give agencies large and small the reliable 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 Garden Valley residents? This new infrastructure will also help improve the overall coverage experience for AT&T wireless customers in Garden Valley. Residents, visitors and businesses can take advantage of the AT&T spectrum bands, as well as Band 14 when capacity is available. The expanded coverage provided by the new cell site will improve public safety for recreationalists and local residents alike by increasing first responders’ capacity to communicate in the event of an emergency, including fire.

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 First Responder Network Authority – an independent agency within the federal government. The FirstNet network provides the public safety community with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, including unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption for first responders, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities enable FirstNet to help fire, EMS, EMA law enforcement, and 9-1-1 personnel save lives and protect their communities.

What people are saying:

Tara Thue
President, AT&T Mountain West States
“There has been significant fire activity in recent years in the Garden Valley area requiring a coordinated response. That paired with the area’s popular recreational draws including white-water rafting and flyfishing make this area well suited for a FirstNet site, and we’re really excited to see this particular location come on air.”

Edward Parkinson
CEO, FirstNet Authority
“FirstNet is a dedicated broadband platform for public safety, by public safety. We worked hand-in-hand with Idaho’s public safety community to understand their needs for the network. And this new site is a prime example of how that input and feedback is becoming reality. We look forward to supporting Idaho’s first responders’ use of FirstNet to help them save lives and protect our communities.”

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