AT&T’s $6 million investment and multi-year network enhancement project has culminated in dramatically improved coverage and capacity for riders on the Metro North New Haven rail line, the nation’s busiest commuter rail.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto and AT&T recently unveiled this collaborative infrastructure project at the Stamford Transportation Center and described how the enhanced AT&T wireless service will benefit commuters.
“Expanding the availability of high-speed networks is critical if we want to be ahead of the curve on technology that makes our state even more attractive to workers and employers, and that includes along our rail corridors, which up until recently contained many dead zones where cellular service would frequently drop,” Governor Lamont said. “By partnering with telecommunications companies and allowing them to install their equipment on state properties, we can expand high-speed service to more areas and do so in a cost-effective manner. I appreciate AT&T for collaborating with us on this initiative.”
More than 30 new AT&T sites were installed over the past several years between New Haven and the New York border. This includes both macro sites and a series of specially designed small cell nodes. AT&T engineers collaborated with state and private entities to design a layout and build strategy that maximizes coverage while also minimizing safety risks and disruptions to rail service. The new infrastructure works in tandem with the company’s existing network to provide better coverage through a mix of LTE and 5G service.
An additional five new sites are forecast to launch along the rail line in 2025.
Some of these enhancements also support first responders and the extended public safety community on FirstNet®, Built with AT&T – America’s public safety network. The project brings Band 14 spectrum to the area. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.
Governor Lamont set this multi-year project in motion in 2020 as part of his stated vision for increasing wireless service across the state.
“AT&T’s six-million-dollar investment along the Metro North Rail line and collaboration with the Governor’s office is the kind of strategic economic development that will make Connecticut a technology leader,” said Chris DiPentima, President & CEO, CBIA. “Better wireless service means more productivity for commuters. A more enjoyable riding experience overall increases the line’s appeal and the opportunity for economic growth from New Haven to the New York border.”
AT&T’s network enhancements along the Metro North rail line greatly benefit commuters, residents and visitors traversing the state. Dramatically improved coverage and capacity makes for more productive and enjoyable train experiences and further help make our state a leader in wireless technology.
This project became a reality because Governor Lamont and his team identified a need and spurred industry to action. We’re grateful to be part of this ongoing effort to create a modern, connected and cutting-edge Connecticut.
