Missouri has diverse geography, from the peaks and valleys of the Ozark Mountains to the mighty Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Because it shares its border with eight states and experiences year-round harsh weather, the state’s public safety personnel need coverage in rural locations and access to a reliable broadband infrastructure that will remain operational whenever and wherever first responders need a signal.

The First Responder Network Authority team recognizes the unique communications challenges that Missouri first responders face. We have been working closely with Missouri public safety officials since 2014, capturing their feedback and translating it into the design of the FirstNet network. During the development of state deployment plans, our team worked hand-in-hand with Missouri leaders to ensure the plan was customized to address their needs.

Following this close collaboration, Missouri chose to adopt the plan and “opt in” to FirstNet. Today, we continue to meet regularly with state and local officials to discuss their public safety broadband needs. In 2019 alone, our team met with Missouri public safety officials more than 10 times. Our engagement in Missouri included attending the Missouri Fire Chiefs Association Annual Conference, participating in the Missouri Sheriffs Association Conference, and meeting with the Lake Ozark Fire Department to prepare for the 2019 Lake Race. Engagements like these are crucial to the ongoing success of the network and the advancement of public safety communications across the state and the nation.

Connect with our team of Public Safety Advisors to learn about FirstNet in your community.