What’s the news?
AT&T customers and FirstNet subscribers in Springfield got a big boost in wireless connectivity. We’ve added a new cell tower at the corner of Route 4 and Spaulding Orchard Rd. to enhance the area’s 5G coverage and help give residents and first responders faster, more reliable wireless service. Our investment will help customers get the most out of their mobile devices.
Why is this important?
We know how important it is for our customers to stay connected. That’s why we’re also boosting network reliability and capacity as we expand our network. This helps Illinois residents get the best possible experience over the AT&T network wherever they live, work and play. And it’s giving first responders on FirstNet – America’s public safety network – access to always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data.
These enhancements also bring Band 14 spectrum to the area. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. We look at Band 14 as public safety’s VIP lane. In an emergency, this band – or lane – can be cleared and locked just for FirstNet subscribers. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.
Committed to our Networks: From 2018 to 2020, we invested more than $2.7 billion in our wireless and wired networks in Illinois. These investments boost reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance for residents and their businesses.
What is FirstNet?
FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. It is built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the federal government. The FirstNet network is providing public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, law enforcement save lives and protect communities.
What people are saying
“We consistently work to provide better coverage for the Springfield community and public safety – and we’re investing in our wireless network to accomplish that.”
Chris Warwick — External Affairs Director, AT&T Illinois
“We want our customers to have a great experience. With AT&T 5G and FirstNet, local residents and first responders alike will be better able to connect through steaming video, sharing on social media or chatting virtually with family and friends. We consistently work to provide better coverage for the Springfield community and public safety – and we’re investing in our wireless network to accomplish that,” said Chris Warwick, Director, AT&T Illinois External Affairs.
Where can I find more information? For more about the value FirstNet is bringing to public safety, check out FirstNet.com.
