AT&T*, in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority), added a new 5G¹ cell site in Brantley County as a direct result of state and local public safety feedback, boosting wireless connectivity for first responders on FirstNet®, America’s public safety network.

Today, AT&T and the FirstNet Authority joined local first responders, public safety officials and community leaders to highlight the new site. The site was built as part of AT&T and the federal government’s ongoing work to expand the FirstNet network where first responders need it most.

“Reliable communications are critical to the safety and resilience of our communities. FirstNet strengthens emergency preparedness by providing the dedicated connectivity public safety personnel need whether first responders are handling routine calls or major emergencies.,” said Congressman Buddy Carter (GA-01). “This new site represents meaningful progress for Brantley County and will better equip those who work every day to protect lives and serve our neighbors.”

“This new FirstNet site is an important investment in the safety of Brantley County, and we appreciate the collaboration that helped make this enhanced connectivity possible,” said Joey Cason, Brantley County Manager. “The site will expand coverage, helping our first responders share critical information, coordinate resources and respond more effectively. When every second matters, dependable connectivity can make a difference for responders and the people they serve.”

This new cell site along Highway 82 in Brantley County will enhance connectivity and strengthen emergency response and operational efficiency for multiple state and local agencies. 

“The FirstNet Authority worked hand-in-hand with Georgia’s public safety community to understand their needs for the network. This new site is a prime example of how that coordination is translating into greater coverage and capabilities for public safety in some of the most rural areas,” said Michael A. Cannon, FirstNet Authority Executive Director and CEO. “Enhanced coverage in Brantley County will help first responders better serve and safeguard their communities.”

Created by the U.S. Congress after 9/11 and built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the federal government, FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for public safety. This new cell site is one of over 350 new sites to be deployed across every state as part of a series of strategic investments. The FirstNet Authority, in collaboration with AT&T, is identifying locations for these sites using data modeling and feedback gathered directly from public safety through local coverage enhancement workshops and other engagements.

“At AT&T, we are proud to provide the reliable communications first responders depend on – every day and in times of emergency,” said Riley Blount, president, AT&T Georgia. “FirstNet is the only nationwide communications network built with and for public safety, and this new cell site is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to working directly with the public safety community to meet their unique needs as they serve and protect our communities.”

As public safety’s partner, AT&T has already grown FirstNet to cover more first responders than any network nationwide². FirstNet provides unique benefits to first responders like always-on priority and preemption across all AT&T commercial spectrum bands, as well as public safety’s Band 14. Overseen by the federal government, FirstNet is designed to meet public safety’s needs and continually evolves based on their feedback. Unlike commercial networks, FirstNet is built from the ground up with and for public safety to deliver purpose-built solutions when every moment counts. 

In addition to supporting the area’s first responders, this new cell site will also enhance the network experience for AT&T wireless customers in Brantley County. 

Today more than 80 percent of calls to 911 come from a wireless device, and Georgia voters will have an opportunity to continue enhancing 911 capabilities in Georgia on the November ballot. Without creating any new fees or increasing the current 911 fee in Georgia, Amendment 3 would establish a dedicated statewide fund to support 911 modernization, directing existing 911 revenue into the fund, providing a long-term structure for Georgia’s transition to Next Generation 911 and the continued operation of its 911 system.

Go here to learn more about how AT&T is supporting Georgia. For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com. Individual first responders can also subscribe to FirstNet and save up to 20% for their family members on the AT&T commercial network online or at their local AT&T store.³