Cell site bolsters Baltimore public safety

Baltimore County personnel are espousing the benefits of a new, purpose-built cell site designed to deliver increased coverage and capacity to first responders across the state.

Officials said public safety communications is receiving a critical upgrade with the cell site launch of a new, purpose-built cell site as part of Maryland’s FirstNet build, noting the firm’s network is being built with AT&T in a public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority.

“I am pleased to see FirstNet staying true to its promise of expanding coverage in our area with this new site build,” Cpt. Matt Fairley, of the Bowley’s Quarters Volunteer Fire Department, said. “As a fourth-generation firefighter and 20-year veteran, this technology and service brings us to a whole new level of fire suppression and marine emergencies. Based near the Chesapeake Bay, we’ve been able to get reliable coverage on land and on the water where we’ve previously struggled. As a 100 percent volunteer organization, knowing our members can easily subscribe to public safety’s network – it’s changing the game for us.”

As a means of ensuring AT&T is placing coverage and capacity where first responders need it most, officials said the FirstNet build is being done with direct feedback from state and public safety officials.

“FirstNet is a dedicated broadband network for public safety, by public safety,” Edward Parkinson, FirstNet Authority acting CEO, said. “We worked hand-in-hand with Maryland’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 Baltimore County’s first responders’ use of FirstNet to help them save lives and protect communities.”