FirstNet expands network indoor coverage services

FirstNet Authority Board has approved an investment to expand network coverage services through small-cell technologies, which would bolster FirstNet indoor operations.

The FirstNet Authority is an independent Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) entity seeking to ensure the building, deployment, and operation of the nationwide broadband network equipping first responders to save lives and protect communities.

“Public safety is at the center of our investment process – the FirstNet Authority is laser-focused on making sure the network continues to provide the communications they need for their mission,” FirstNet Authority Board Chair Steve Benjamin said. “Through our dialogue with public safety, they point to in-building coverage as a top priority for FirstNet. With this investment, we will enhance indoor coverage, provide an additional layer of network resiliency, and give public safety the ability to deploy this service where and when they need it the most.”

The action would aid police headquarters, fire stations, Emergency Communication Centers, and other critical sites and field locations.

The action involves the FirstNet Authority issuing a task order to network contractor AT&T to establish an indoor-coverage enhancing service – a RAN (Radio Access Network) extension.

“The FirstNet Authority has a strong partnership with public safety, so we can make investments that advance the network to benefit their operations,” FirstNet Authority CEO Ed Parkinson said. “In-building coverage routinely tops the list of their desired improvements for FirstNet, so we are thrilled to be investing in a service that will help public safety deploy more localized and focused coverage solutions.”