NYS Public Safety Broadband Newsroom
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November 2019
- No End in Sight for FirstNet Interoperability Debate2019.11.26
Although more than 9,800 U.S. agencies are on board with the nationwide public safety communications platform FirstNet, a debate persists about the very issue that FirstNet is designed to solve: interoperability.
- FirstNet Buildout Nears 70% Completion as Connections Grow2019.11.25
The buildout of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) network was at about 66% as of Nov. 13, and AT&T expects to reach 70% buildout of the nationwide broadband network by the end of the year.
October 2019
- What the FirstNet roadmap says about its in-building strategy2019.10.28
The First Responders Authority will be receiving about $18 billion in payments from AT&T over the 25-year-term of the FirstNet contract, $16 billion is expected to be reinvested in the network, but how?
- Direct Mode Enhancements Move Forward in Latest 3GPP Standards2019.10.22
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) officials participated in the Sept. 16 – 20 Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) meetings in Newport Beach, California. Several features important to critical communications users advanced in the standards process.
- FirstNet Experience Center to Demo, Get Feedback on Future Technology2019.10.18
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) plans to open a 6,000-square-foot experience center that would allow public-safety stakeholders to interact with next-generation technologies and offer feedback.
- How fast is FirstNet growing?2019.10.01
The FirstNet network operated by AT&T has been accepting subscribers for more than a year now.
September 2019
- FirstNet Authority board approves plans to enhance FirstNet core for 5G, expand deployable coverage capabilities2019.09.19
FirstNet Authority board members yesterday voted unanimously to have the organization’s staff begin procurement processes to reinvest funding into making the FirstNet LTE core ready for 5G services and to expand the FirstNet deployable-network program.
March 2019
- FirstNet board approves principles guiding future reinvestments of $15 billion into public-safety broadband system2019.03.21
FirstNet Authority board members today voted unanimously to approve a resolution outlining four key principles that will be followed as the board determines how best to reinvest an estimated $15 billion or more during the next two decades to fund the evolution of the FirstNet system being built and maintained by AT&T.
- Improving EMS Patient Care with Communication Technologies2019.03.20
A Q&A with Deputy Executive Director of the National Public Safety Communications Council Barry Luke
- High-power user equipment (HPUE) can help bridge Band 14 coverage gaps in rural, in-building locations2019.03.18
High-power user equipment (HPUE) can improve the range, throughput and resilience of LTE signals on 700 MHz Band 14 in the U.S., and HPUE products are expected to be available later this year, an official for Assured Wireless said during a conference session at IWCE 2019 in Las Vegas.
- Southern Linc, Mississippi Ask FCC to Address Public-Safety LTE Interoperability2019.03.15
A regional carrier and public-safety group sent letters of support for the 2018 petition from a Colorado group asking the FCC to address Long Term Evolution (LTE) interoperability among commercial carriers.
- AT&T Exec: Most 450,000 FirstNet Subscribers Were Former AT&T Customers2019.03.14
Most of the current 450,000 First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) subscribers were former AT&T customers, but the carrier plans to capitalize on its FirstNet contract by increasing its first responder market share and adding friends and family of FirstNet subscribers, said AT&T Senior Executive Vice President John Stephens.
- DHS, NASA: Testing First Responder Safety Wearables for FirstNet Use2019.03.13
DHS S&T is designing wearables to be interoperable between different agencies, compatible with IT infrastructure and used on the FirstNet network.
- Verizon Plans MCPTT Launch in Fourth Quarter2019.03.12
Verizon plans to launch mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) services by the end of 2019 with two carrier-integrated vendors, similar to rival AT&T for the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) network.
- Interoperability debate dominates carrier-selection panel at IWCE 20192019.03.05
Whether Verizon and FirstNet—the nationwide public-safety network being built by AT&T—should support secure interoperability between subscribers of both systems was the topic of a spirited debate yesterday at IWCE 2019 between consultants who work with Verizon and AT&T.
February 2019
- FirstNet deployment should be more than 60% complete by end of year, AT&T exec says2019.02.28
More than 60% of the planned buildout of the FirstNet system will be completed by the end of this year—months ahead of the contracted schedule—with a realistic possibility that even more progress will be made on the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN), an AT&T executive said yesterday.
- FirstNet, Built with AT&T Launches App Webinar Series with RadioResource Media Group2019.02.20
FirstNet, built with AT&T partnered with RadioResource Media Group to launch a six-webinar series called “Apps for First Responders.” Each webinar will include demonstrations of applications available in the FirstNet App Catalog, along with other information.
- FirstNet proves to be valuable during Super Bowl week in Atlanta, Georgia official says2019.02.07
FirstNet service worked well for agencies helping to secure areas of Atlanta during the Super Bowl and throughout the week of events surrounding the championship game, according to a Georgia state official who participated in the effort.
- Texas A&M First Responder Exercise, Workshop Set for March2019.02.07
“Now that we have FirstNet and next-generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) is on its way, it is time for us to figure out how best to leverage the powerful new capabilities that these two networks offer,” said Walt Magnussen, director of TAMU ITEC. “Building the networks was hard but not as hard as it will be for us to figure out how to break down the jurisdictional silos and share information.”
- AT&T: Super Bowl Mobile Data Traffic Sets Records2019.02.05
Though the Super Bowl Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta was a bit short on excitement, it did set records for mobile data traffic. AT&T said that users on its network consumed 11.5 Terabytes of data in and around the stadium on game day.
January 2019
- Public-Safety Officials Tout Benefits of Datacasting for Video Distribution2019.01.18
Datacasting is technology that sends IP data over broadcast TV spectrum, and public-safety agencies are working with the America’s Public Television Stations (APTS) to access the service.
- FirstNet Authority seeking additional industry partners, Acting CEO Parkinson tells CES2019.01.15
While the FirstNet partnership with AT&T has yielded good progress to date, the FirstNet Authority does not want “to put all of our eggs in one basket” and is seeking other industry partners, particularly those interested in developing technologies that can be leveraged for both public-safety and smart-cities initiatives, according to FirstNet Authority Acting CEO Ed Parkinson.
- Address LTE Interoperability Now, Not During an Incident2019.01.15
When considering the advantages provided by current communications technology, it is unacceptable that officers from different agencies may not have the ability to share important information in the future.
- Verizon can compete effectively against FirstNet for public-safety users, company exec says2019.01.09
Verizon is positioned well to compete with AT&T FirstNet in the public-safety-broadband marketplace and to begin offering 5G services in the U.S. in 2019 and 2020, according to Ronan Dunne, Verizon executive vice president and president of Verizon Wireless.
- AT&T Selects Second MCPTT Provider, 3GPP-Compliant Service Planned this Year2019.01.08
AT&T has completed its procurement for a second carrier-integrated mission-critical push to talk (MCPTT) provider and plans to launch Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)-compliant MCPTT solutions in the second half of the year. The carrier, which operates the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) nationwide public-safety broadband network, declined to name the second MCPTT vendor.
- Mission-Critical Features Move Forward During Latest Standards Meetings2019.01.04
The December quarterly Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) meetings in Sorrento, Italy, addressed standards in several areas relevant to mission-critical broadband in three separate plenary group meetings.
- Drones. AI. Bodycams. Is Technology Making Us Safer?2019.01.01
Across the country, law enforcement agencies are using emerging tech to gather an unprecedented amount of data to drive down crime statistics. But are their efforts actually making a difference?
December 2018
- County gears up for 2019 wireless system2018.12.31
The Fulton County Board of Supervisors on Thursday discussed how the county is gearing up for a new federal public safety wireless broadband system.
- Potential security issue with Kodiak push-to-talk offering has been fixed, AT&T says2018.12.21
A security vulnerability in software associated with AT&T’s Enhanced Push to Talk [EPTT] that leverages the Kodiak platform owned by Motorola Solution has been eliminated, an AT&T representative this week told California First Responder Network (CalFRN).
- FirstNet Outlines New Operational Strategy at Board Meeting2018.12.13
The acting CEO of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) laid out a new strategy for the organization through 2022 as it moves further into operational mode and the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) gains subscribers and coverage.
- NIST finds security issues with first responder mobile, wearable devices2018.12.12
A range of potentially serious security issues with mobile information collection and sharing involving public safety mobile devices, backend storage locations, and virtual private networks used by first responders, were reported in the new National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Draft NIST Interagency/Internal Report 8196, Security Analysis of First Responder Mobile and Wearable Devices.
- The Uncertain Outlook for ProSe2018.12.10
As the industry begins to adopt Long Term Evolution (LTE) for its broadband data needs and many mission-critical features are standardized in the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) process, one area where many questions remain is LTE device-to-device (D2D) communications.
- New FirstNet Chair Horowitz encouraged by progress, outlines ‘FirstNet 2.0’ plans2018.12.07
Leaders of U.S. public-safety organizations are “thrilled” with AT&T’s development of the FirstNet system and want the FirstNet Authority to continue its advocacy for first responders—a cornerstone of the organization’s “FirstNet 2.0” strategy that will be unveiled next week, according to FirstNet board Chair Ed Horowitz.
- AT&T CEO says FirstNet build is one-third completed, will help 5G push and increase network capacity by 50% by end of 20192018.12.05
AT&T is six months ahead of its contracted schedule to deploy the 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum licensed to FirstNet, and the public-safety initiative will result in increasing the capacity of its network by 50% by the end of 2019 and preparing the carrier for a smooth migration to 5G, according to AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson.
- New Report Recommends Standardized User ID Structure for MCPTT2018.12.05
The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council released a report specific to managing user identification for mission-critical push to talk (MCPTT). The report provides high-level recommendations on the potential use of various MCPTT data fields to manage first responder identity and recommends creating a standard governing the MCPTT ID structure.
- NIST Releases Draft Report for First Responder Mobile Devices2018.12.04
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) on Monday released NISTIR 8196, its draft report on the cybersecurity of mobile devices and wearables for first responders, and is seeking comment on the draft until January 7.
- Second Colorado Group Requests FCC Action on FirstNet Interoperability Concerns2018.12.04
Another Colorado jurisdiction filed a petition asking the FCC to address Long Term Evolution (LTE) interoperability among commercial carriers.
November 2018
- Top Public-Safety Issues: Spectrum, 9-1-1 Location, FirstNet/LMR Integration2018.11.26
Marilyn Ward, executive director of the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC), shares her views on public-safety issues in this exclusive interview.
- Todd Early appointed as new chair of FirstNet’s Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC)2018.11.20
Longtime public-safety-broadband proponent Todd Early of Texas is the new chair for the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC), FirstNet Authority Chair Ed Horowitz announced today.
October 2018
- Trick or treat? Next few months could influence direction of critical-communications world2018.10.31
A sense of anxious expectation is surrounding the critical-communications arena, which already has experienced changes at an unprecedented pace, fueled largely by broadband innovations.
- AT&T: 250,000 FirstNet Subscribers, 3,600 Public-Safety Agencies2018.10.23
More than 3,600 public-safety agencies across the country have joined the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), making the total number of subscribers more than 250,000.
- New Jersey Decommissions JerseyNet, Transfers Assets to AT&T FirstNet.2018.10.22
The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) announced the completion and decommissioning of JerseyNet, one of five First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) early builder Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks.
- Esri introduces ArcGIS mobile app for FirstNet ecosystem2018.10.22
Public safety and law enforcement agencies that have signed onto FirstNet will now be able to access ArcGIS, Esri’s mapping and spatial analysis technology, within the network’s app ecosystem.
- AT&T Adds New Applications in FirstNet App Catalog for First Responders2018.10.19
AT&T has added new applications in the FirstNet App Catalog to further support FirstNet subscribers with their public safety operations. New programs include Explorer for ArcGIS, Intrepid Response, NetMotion, PulsePoint and SceneDoc.
- Fiber Damage Vexes Verizon After Hurricane Michael2018.10.14
Hurricane Michael has caused such extensive damage to the fiber that underpins Verizon Communications Inc.’s wireless network that it has stymied the carrier’s efforts to restore service to parts of the hardest-hit areas of the Florida Panhandle.
- AT&T FirstNet, Verizon Now Support First Responder Body Cameras2018.10.09
Two national first responder networks – one anchored by AT&T and the other by Verizon – are supporting the Axon Body 3 camera, which can make dangerous situations a bit safer both for first responders and the public.
- AT&T-FirstNet says 72 deployables are available to subscribers 2018.10.08
A fleet of 72 deployable cell sites are available to public safety agencies who subscribe to AT&T-FirstNet’s services, according to the carrier. Those network resources are housed at 40 locations around the country and can be delivered within a 14-hour window after an emergency request.
September 2018
- Will LTE Replace LMR for Critical Communications?2018.09.18
Coverage, reliability and security are the top concerns for first responders for adopting commercial networks, according to an industry survey, and a market research executive said he doesn’t expect Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks to replace LMR for the next 10 to 15 years.
- Updated: New Apple iPhones support operation on Band 14 spectrum licensed to FirstNet2018.09.14
New iPhones announced by Apple this week are the device maker’s first products that support operation on 700 MHz Band 14—the spectrum licensed to FirstNet, which has contracted AT&T to build and maintain the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
August 2018
- AT&T-FirstNet says 2,500 agencies have signed on for service2018.08.30
AT&T-FirstNet says that it has more than 150,000 connections for public safety use.
- Verizon to lift wireless data caps on public safety next week, with immediate help for Hawaii, West Coast2018.08.24
Verizon announces that its public-safety customers nationwide will be eligible for unlimited data plans with no data caps—and no price increase to existing subscription packages—starting next week, with the new plans being implemented immediately in Hawaii and on the West Coast to address expected near-term emergency situations.
- Verizon’s Firefighter-Throttling Controversy Could Help AT&T2018.08.22
Verizon Communications Inc.’s snafu with limiting data speeds of California firefighters comes at an opportune time for rival AT&T Inc., which is striving to sign up public-safety customers to its FirstNet network.
- Records Show FirstNet, AT&T Execs Pressured Colorado Officials After LTE Interoperability Filing2018.08.21
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) and AT&T executives criticized a July 6 Colorado Public Safety Broadband Governing Body (CPSBGB) filing on public-safety interoperability in emails to officials in the Governor’s Office according to emails obtained from a Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) request.
- Verizon throttled fire department's "unlimited" data during Calif. Wildfire2018.08.21
Verizon Wireless' throttling of a fire department that uses its data services has been submitted as evidence in a lawsuit that seeks to reinstate federal net neutrality rules.
- Verizon calls for greater interoperability with FirstNet, says public-sector business still growing2018.08.17
Verizon continues to seek AT&T and FirstNet agreement on higher levels of interoperability to support first-responder communications, although no such discussion have occurred to date, according to Verizon officials.
- Carriers Back Colorado Request for FirstNet Interoperability2018.08.16
Two regional commercial carriers filed letters of support for a request from the Colorado Public Safety Broadband Governing Body (CPSBGB) that the FCC ensure interoperability for the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- AT&T FirstNet: Fred Scalera outlines capabilities in new Emergency Drop Kits for FirstNet2018.08.15
AT&T FirstNet: Fred Scalera outlines capabilities in new Emergency Drop Kits for FirstNet
- FirstNet Board Approves $240M Fiscal Year 2019 Budget, Honors Swenson2018.08.13
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board of directors approved its fiscal year (FY) 2019 budget, outlined next year's priorities.
- FirstNet to begin agency-level engagement program with public safety2018.08.08
FirstNet is launching a new engagement program that calls for the organization’s officials to meet with public-safety agencies throughout the United States to help them “optimize FirstNet inside their agencies,” according to Dave Buchanan, director of the First Responder Network Authority’s advocacy team.
- AT&T announces Emergency Drop Kit to provide FirstNet users with connectivity wherever they go2018.08.07
AT&T announces the Emergency Drop Kit, which is designed to let FirstNet users take network connectivity with them virtually anywhere, providing a 300-foot-radius Wi-Fi “bubble” supported by backhaul that can switch seamlessly between satellite and LTE connections.
June 2018
- FirstNet board, AT&T highlight deployment, adoption, functionality progress for FirstNet2018.06.22
AT&T announces that more than 1,000 public-safety agencies in 52 states and territories have joined FirstNet, which is surpassing expectations in meeting key milestones for adoption, deployment and technical capabilities, according to FirstNet board members.
- FirstNet Develops Coverage Verification Process, Receives First AT&T Payment2018.06.21
FirstNet officials are developing a process to verify AT&T’s nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) coverage. FirstNet also received its first sustainability payment from AT&T.
- NPSTC NPSBN Position Statement2018.06.20
NPSTC Supports FirstNet as THE Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network.
- FirstNet, AT&T announce nationwide availability of subscriber-paid/BYOD offering2018.06.15
Primary public-safety agencies with little or no budget to pay for their personnel to have broadband services can utilize a FirstNet subscriber-paid—or bring your own device (BYOD)—offering recently made available nationwide at 5,300 AT&T retail stores and online outlets, according to an AT&T official.
- N.C. Assembly Report Finds Both LMR, FirstNet Necessary; No Duplication2018.06.12
The North Carolina general assembly’s program evaluation division (PED) released a report that found the state’s 800 MHz mission-critical communications network and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) services are complementary but do not duplicate functionality.
- Comparing LTE Coverage2018.06.11
Drive tests compare critical information about commercial carrier broadband performance and coverage.
- FirstNet Becomes Locally Available to First Responders, Opens Doors to 5,300+ AT&T Retail Locations Nationwide2018.06.11
AT&T retail stores across the country are now open to verified first responders interested in signing themselves up for FirstNet service.
- AT&T’s new Flying COW drone to be all-weather disaster insurance2018.06.01
AT&T has designed an all-weather drone to keep its wireless network “flying” in a disaster. The all-weather Flying COW drone — designed by AT&T with help from manufacturers and first responders — will be one of two types of drones that AT&T will offer for its Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) system.
May 2018
- AT&T wants to meet FirstNet deployment targets sooner than expected, AT&T exec says2018.05.31
AT&T plans to deploy public-safety LTE service on 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum more quickly than expected, with about one-third of the projected buildout to be completed by next April, according to AT&T Chief Financial Officer (CFO) John Stephens.
- San Jose-AT&T Small Cell Pact Important to Closing City's Digital Divide2018.05.25
San Jose's recent agreement with AT&T on small cell deployments could bridge the city's digital divide and enhance the provider's FirstNet rollout, while serving as a signpost for other municipalities.
- Internet of Life-Saving Things (IoLST) promises to transform EMS industry, FirstNet’s McGinnis says2018.05.25
Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel soon may leverage information from myriad medical devices and reliable broadband connectivity from FirstNet to provide better initial treatment to patients, as well as unprecedented situational awareness to others in the healthcare ecosystem, according to FirstNet board member Kevin McGinnis.
- AT&T execs cite FirstNet progress, plans for rural deployments, 5G preparation2018.05.23
AT&T plans to leverage its investment in FirstNet to expand its rural coverage, harden its network and prepare all of the carrier’s cell sites to support 5G services via software upgrades, according to AT&T executives.
- AT&T clarifies FirstNet service plans, prioritization for utilities2018.05.11
Utility companies can subscribe to FirstNet as “extended primary” users of the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) being deployed by AT&T, but utilities would not be eligible to receive preemptive access rights to the system unless such access was activated temporarily by a traditional public-safety entity, according to AT&T.
- MCPTT Project to Release Demos, SDK2018.05.09
The first Mission Critical Open Platform (MCOP) software development kit (SDK) release and MCOP application protocol interface (API) will be available at upcoming industry events.
- FirstNet Tested During Boston Marathon2018.05.03
Leaders at FirstNet, the nation’s emerging high-speed first responder communications network, are declaring a win in their biggest public demonstration to date.
- Public Safety Advocate: Is LMR Old and Out of Date? LTE the Future?2018.05.03
For the past few weeks I have been talking with folks in D.C., states, and locally about FirstNet and if and when it will replace Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems. I have found that among those not directly involved with public safety and do not have much, if any, technical background, there is a great deal of confusion surrounding LMR, FirstNet, and the limited amount of spectrum available to us.
April 2018
- Officials for AT&T, Nokia outline capabilities of upcoming MCPTT-compliant solutions2018.04.20
Voice services meeting the mission-critical-push-to-talk (MCPTT) standard developed by 3GPP—the body that oversees LTE development—will provide greater voice quality, performance and reliability than any push-to-talk-over-cellular (PoC) offering available on the market today, according to officials from AT&T and Nokia.
- AT&T, FirstNet aim to boost app ecosystem with hackathons2018.04.20
More than 200 developers and public safety officials recently gathered in San Francisco to work on developing new applications for first responders. It was the first official hackathon for FirstNet, which seeks to support a comprehensive ecosystem of relevant applications for public safety as one of its goals to improve critical communications with mobile broadband access.
- First Responder Handbook Aims to Spur Integration of Next-Gen Technologies2018.04.16
The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) Apex program released a handbook aimed at ensuring the varied on-body technologies used by first responders interoperate.
- AT&T Signs New Crown Castle Agreement to Speed FirstNet Buildout2018.04.11
AT&T and Crown Castle signed a new agreement simplifying and expanding their long-term leasing deal for wireless network infrastructure. Under the new agreement, leasing management and operations are streamlined to allow AT&T to efficiently deploy new technologies and increase network capacity, a statement said.
- NIST Releases List of Devices Approved for FirstNet Network2018.04.11
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released a list of approved devices under the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Device Approval Program.
- Most expect eventual public-safety transition to MCPTT over LTE, but timing remains in doubt2018.04.10
First responders are expected to begin utilizing mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT)-standard services over FirstNet and other LTE networks late this year, but industry representatives have myriad opinions about when MCPTT might supplant land-mobile-radio (LMR) as the solution for mission-critical voice communications.
- Public-safety communications veterans launch FirstNet Association2018.04.03
Longtime public-safety communications representatives announce the creation of the FirstNet Association, an organization that founders hope will provide a platform for end users and vendors to discuss issues associated with the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
March 2018
- Verizon announces launch of its public-safety LTE core2018.03.27
First-responder subscribers to Verizon will have their traffic managed through a dedicated public-safety LTE core that will become operational this week, the telecom carrier announced today.
- FirstNet, AT&T announce public-safety LTE core; AT&T exec dismisses Verizon interoperability concerns2018.03.27
FirstNet announces that nationwide contractor AT&T has delivered upon its promise to complete a dedicated public-safety LTE evolved packet core to serve FirstNet’s subscribers on schedule, while a key AT&T official dismisses concerns of communications issues between FirstNet and Verizon subscribers.
- SPOC Offers Practical Advice for Selecting Your Public-Safety LTE Service Provider2018.03.27
Both AT&T and Verizon announced plans for their respective public-safety Long Term Evolution (LTE) cores this week. Public-safety agencies now have the task of deciding which broadband data service best suits their needs.
- FirstNet board approves process to make future investment decisions for nationwide network2018.03.15
FirstNet board members approve changes to the organization’s charter, which includes a new Investment Review Board within the Finance Committee that will spearhead how about $15 billion from contractor AT&T will be spent during the next 25 years.
- Network virtualization promises to play a key role in FirstNet offerings, future service innovations2018.03.14
Software-based networking advances are creating cost efficiencies and introducing flexible capabilities that let network providers like AT&T develop a service like FirstNet, which is being customized to meet first responders’ needs, according to IWCE 2018 panelists addressing the topic.
- AT&T to Release RFP for Second Carrier-Integrated MCPTT Offering2018.03.13
AT&T plans to have two carrier-integrated mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) options for First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) subscribers and plans to release a request for proposals (RFP) later this year, said an AT&T executive.
- FirstNet issues task order to AT&T for deployment of nationwide public-safety broadband network2018.03.08
FirstNet has issued the official task order to AT&T, giving the contractor the green light to build the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN), FirstNet CEO Mike Poth announced yesterday during his morning keynote address at IWCE 2018.
- Is FirstNet secure enough for law enforcement?2018.03.06
Although California eventually decided to opt into the FirstNet national public-safety wireless broadband network, the director of California’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) has raised concerns about FirstNet’s compliance with Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) requirements.
- AT&T officials shed light on ‘extended primary’ category of FirstNet users, prioritization details2018.03.06
Personnel within the utility, transportation and healthcare sectors are among those qualified to subscribe to FirstNet and have priority access across the AT&T system, but many questions remain about the “extended primary” category of users and some details regarding the prioritization-selection process, according to AT&T officials.
February 2018
- AT&T’s Sambar projects accelerated FirstNet buildout—‘a lot faster’ than five years for most of U.S.2018.02.27
AT&T already is deploying cell sites that operate on the 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum licensed to FirstNet and expects to finish the buildout—covering 95% of the U.S. population—well before the contracted five-year contract period expires in most cases, according to the AT&T executive heading the project.
- New Samsung Galaxy S9 devices include FirstNet Band 14 support, AT&T and FirstNet say2018.02.26
Samsung’s Galaxy S9 and S9+ smartphones—unveiled at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona—are approved FirstNet devices that operate on the 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum licensed to FirstNet, according to officials for FirstNet and its nationwide contractor, AT&T.
- AT&T outlines financial terms of FirstNet deal in annual SEC filing2018.02.22
AT&T will pay FirstNet $18 billion in sustainability payments during the next 25 years, and the company expects $15 billion of that total will be returned to AT&T to pay for FirstNet upgrades, while less than $3 billion is projected to be used to fund FirstNet’s organizational operations, according to an AT&T regulatory filing.
- AT&T Targets Developers with Apps for FirstNet App Catalog2018.02.16
The head of AT&T’s application developer program for the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) outlined details on the program and how developers can become involved during a Feb. 15 webinar with RadioResource Media Group.
- AT&T Promises Rural Areas to Be Priority in FirstNet Buildout2018.02.13
Rural deployment will not be an afterthought to urban deployment during the buildout of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), AT&T, FirstNet and state officials said during a webinar hosted by the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA).
- AT&T CEO highlights FirstNet role as ‘foundation’ to carrier’s 5G plans2018.02.01
FirstNet was AT&T’s top strategic initiative last year, and the telecom giant has begun construction of the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN), which will “prove to be the foundation for taking wireless network performance to a completely new level,” according to AT&T Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson
January 2018
- In-building coverage for FirstNet wanted, but many details remain unknown2018.01.31
In-building coverage for FirstNet wanted, but many details remain unknown
- AT&T, FirstNet cast doubt on rival's participation2018.01.23
As FirstNet contractor AT&T begins rolling out services for the national wireless broadband network for first responders, it is pushing back against rival Verizon's statements about alternate first responder offerings.
- Northern Mariana Islands ‘opt-in’ decision gives FirstNet clean sweep of states and territories2018.01.19
Northern Mariana Islands Gov. Ralph DeLeon Guerrero Torres announces that he has accepted the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) deployment plan offered by FirstNet and AT&T, meaning all 56 states and territories in the U.S. have made an “opt-in” decision.
- Verizon preemption service ‘available’ to public-safety customers but not necessarily ‘enabled’2018.01.19
Verizon has made preemptive access “available” across its network for public-safety customers and demonstrated that it works during this year’s Tournament of Roses Parade in California, but the preemption functionality is being “enabled” only on a limited basis in other parts of the country, according to a Verizon spokesperson.
- Report on MCPTT over LTE Integration with LMR Networks Released2018.01.18
The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) released a new report detailing the issues and requirements regarding integration and interoperability between LMR systems and Long Term Evolution (LTE) mission-critical push to talk (MCPTT) services
- Rep. Eshoo Stresses Public-Safety Interoperability in Letter to NTIA, FirstNet2018.01.18
California Rep. Anna Eshoo asked the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to take steps to ensure interoperability between FirstNet’s network and other public-safety networks.
- FirstNet’s Schrier on New Public-Safety Meetings, App Interoperability and Privacy2018.01.16
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) representatives plan to continue meeting with the public-safety community to discuss operational issues around mobile data. The meetings will likely be regional versus state specific, said Bill Schrier, FirstNet senior advisor, from the CES show last week in Las Vegas.
- CES 2018: FirstNet Sees Growth Potential of App Ecosystem, Partnerships2018.01.11
Public safety agencies and the venture capitalists and developers who work with them are poised to create more solutions for the national first responders network.
- Public-safety representatives contest recent Verizon claims about its first-responder offerings2018.01.10
Recent statements attributed to Verizon in the media that the carrier’s broadband service is the only public-safety-grade LTE network and that its planned public-safety LTE core network may be interoperable with the FirstNet system “suggest things that are simply not there,” according to a presentation to the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC).
- NPSTC Releases Report: Public Safety Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Interoperability with LTE Mission Critical Push to Talk2018.01.10
This report is designed to articulate the issues and requirements regarding integration and interoperability between LMR systems and LTE MCPTT services.
- AT&T Executive Outlines Initiatives for FirstNet, IoT2018.01.09
An AT&T executive said the carrier plans to bridge public safety with the internet of things (IoT), saying First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) users can tap IoT to connect with “the world around them like never before.”
- What just happened? A review of key factors considered during the FirstNet ‘opt-in/opt-out’ decision period2018.01.05
All states made their "opt-in" decisions for FirstNet by the Dec. 28 deadline given to governors. Although the final choices were all the same, states took many different paths and considered a wide variety of factors in making their FirstNet decisions.
- FirstNet and AT&T moving forward with IoT, smart city offerings2018.01.03
“FirstNet will not only solve today’s communications challenges, but it will create a new, public safety-focused marketplace that offers innovative, life-saving technologies that will help first responders do their jobs safely and more effectively, as well as connect them to the internet of things and smart cities infrastructure, as needed,” wrote FirstNet’s CEO Mike Poth wrote this week.
- Rivada, Verizon undeterred by FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety sweep2018.01.03
Last week AT&T and FirstNet secured public-safety agreements with all of the nation’s 50 states, as well as two U.S territories and Washington, D.C. Rivada and Verizon, which had both been working to offer an alternative to FirstNet, continue forward in the public safety marketplace.
- ‘Opt-in’ decisions give public safety in all states the option of using FirstNet immediately2018.01.02
Public-safety agencies and personnel in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are eligible to subscribe to FirstNet broadband services from AT&T after all governors facing the Dec. 28 deadline made “opt-in” decisions to accept the FirstNet deployment for their states and territories.
December 2017
- Governor Cuomo Announces New York State's Participation in FirstNet First Responder Network 2017.12.28
Network Will Deliver a State-of-the Art, Wireless Broadband Network to the State's Public Safety Community. AT&T will Build, Operate and Maintain the Network at No Cost to the State.
- Rivada, Verizon question AT&T/FirstNet actions as ‘opt-in/opt-out’ deadline just a week away2017.12.22
With a Dec. 28 deadline to make FirstNet “opt-in/opt-out” decisions less than a week away, Rivada Networks is encouraging governors to pursue the “opt-out” alternative while advocating for a new 90-day decision period, and Verizon has raised questions about AT&T’s motivation for building the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- Governors make a flurry of FirstNet ‘opt-in’ announcements on final day before holiday weekend2017.12.22
Governors in four states—Massachusetts, North Dakota, Delaware and Connecticut—today accepted the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) deployment plan offered by FirstNet and AT&T on behalf of their states, meaning 43 states and two territories have made FirstNet “opt-in” decisions.
- FirstNet launches ruthless-preemption functionality for 'primary' public-safety subscribers2017.12.12
FirstNet public-safety subscribers in the “primary” user category—law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911 and emergency-management personnel—now have preemptive access across AT&T’s network, FirstNet and AT&T announced today.
- FirstNet to play a ‘very, very significant’ role in AT&T plans for broadband, smart cities, IoT, exec says2017.12.01
Public-safety communications is the focus of AT&T’s deployment of the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN), but the carrier giant also expects the initiative to generate key benefits in smart cities and other key growth areas beyond the first-responder community, according to an AT&T executive.
November 2017
- Vermont becomes 32nd state to make FirstNet ‘opt-in’ announcement2017.11.29
Vermont Gov. Phil Scott announces that he has accepted the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) deployment plan offered by FirstNet and AT&T on behalf of his state, making Vermont the 32nd state—not including two territories—to “opt-in” to the FirstNet system.
- AT&T’s Sambar emphasizes company’s commitment to public safety, touts disaster-response efforts2017.11.15
AT&T is committed to serving public-safety users that subscribe to FirstNet, which is illustrated by the carrier’s enhancements of its network, personnel and disaster-recovery efforts that have been tested in recent months, according to an AT&T senior vice president for FirstNet.
- AT&T Signs on FirstNet Subscribers, Pricing Details Available2017.11.14
AT&T has signed up the first subscribers in several First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) opt-in states and is offering trial services to other customers. Several state contracting vehicles are publicly available as well, although each agency negotiates individual agency pricing with AT&T.
- AT&T Tower Agreement with Verizon, Tillman to Benefit FirstNet Buildout2017.11.13
AT&T, Verizon and Tillman Infrastructure entered into a joint agreement to build hundreds of cell towers, and AT&T executives said the new builds will contribute to its 25-year agreement with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet).
- Thousands in San Juan Puerto Rico Get Cell Service via AT&T’s Flying COW Drone2017.11.07
AT&T’s Flying COW drone is now grazing the skies of Puerto Rico, providing talk, text, and data to “thousands of customers”.
- Key Issues Surrounding Verizon's Concerns with FirstNet 2017.11.01
In a submitted letter to the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, Don Brittingham, Vice President of Public Safety Policy for Verizon, outlines some of the key issues surrounding their concerns with FirstNet.
October 2017
- FirstNet releases policy for consulting with tribal nations after governors make ‘opt-in/opt-out’ decisions2017.10.24
FirstNet releases a policy outlining the consultation process it will have with tribal nations after governors in states and territories have made their “opt-in/opt-out” decisions regarding FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- Verizon Executive Says LTE Network Meets Most Public Safety Grade Guidelines2017.10.20
A Verizon executive said its Long Term Evolution (LTE) network meets most guidelines included in the 2014 National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) report, “Defining Public Safety Grade Systems and Facilities.”
- Public Safety Grade LTE - Myth or Reality?2017.10.17
Should public safety expect LTE networks to be built to the same public safety grade standards used in LMR systems?
- FirstNet faces challenges in implementing its public safety broadband network, GAO report says2017.10.16
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) faces various challenges in implementing its public safety broadband network, according to a recent review conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO).
- AT&T, FirstNet Unveil Developer Program for Public Safety Innovation2017.10.12
The First Responder Network Authority and AT&T have launched a developer program which aims to promote public safety-focused innovation and provide communications tools for first responders.
- Unanswered questions loom as governors prepare to make ‘opt-in/opt-out’ FirstNet choices2017.10.04
Most governors have until Dec. 28 to make their "opt-in/opt-out" choices regarding FirstNet. Considerable information about FirstNet is available, but several key data points that could impact a governor's decision remain unknown as the 90-day decision clock ticks.
- Verizon meets with FirstNet, but interoperability questions remain2017.10.03
Verizon officials had “very productive discussions” with FirstNet during the latter part of September, but it remains unclear whether users of Verizon’s announced public-safety broadband offering will be able to interoperate seamlessly and securely with subscribers on the FirstNet system being built and operated by AT&T.
September 2017
- Verizon exec shares carrier’s FirstNet interop goals, Band 14 device plans, why it did not bid against AT&T
2017.09.15
Verizon hopes its planned public-safety network and applications will interoperate with the FirstNet system—even committing to including FirstNet 700 MHz Band 14 operations in Verizon devices—to give public safety a competitive option, but the carrier has yet to begin formal discussions with FirstNet, according to a Verizon official.
- AT&T CEO says FirstNet hardening will include ‘bunkering,’ ‘redundant perpetual backup power’2017.09.12
AT&T plans to employ hardening approaches such as “bunkering” and “redundant perpetual backup power” within the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) to prevent the type of cell-site outages being experienced in Florida as a result of Hurricane Irma, according to AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson.
- AT&T’s Sambar apologizes to NPSTC, describes core-to-core interoperability as a ‘slippery slope’2017.09.07
Chris Sambar, AT&T’s official leading the FirstNet effort, apologizes for comments about the public-safety-grade (PSG) definition, said AT&T is committed to Band 14 deployment and outlined potential security concerns that core-to-core interoperability with Verizon or other carriers could cause for public safety.
August 2017
- NTIA officials outline expected process associated with reviews of states seeking FirstNet ‘opt-out’2017.08.25
Governors will have the most crucial financial information when they receive final state plans from FirstNet next month, but the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) review process may not be finalized until later, according to NTIA officials.
- AT&T issues statement regarding position in debate on public-safety-grade definition2017.08.23
AT&T will meet FirstNet’s requirements for its nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN), but the carrier is “hesistant to say that there is complete definition set in stone” about what constitutes a public-safety-grade system, according to a statement released by AT&T on Tuesday.
- FirstNet officials say advocacy for public safety is key role in the future2017.08.22
FirstNet will continue to work with public-safety representatives to ensure that its nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) evolves to meet first responders’ needs during the next 25 years, according to FirstNet officials.
- NPSTC Reacts to AT&T Comments Regarding Lack of a Public Safety Grade Definition2017.08.18
NPSTC is disappointed that FirstNet's commercial partner, AT&T, has on numerouse occasions stated that it is not aware of a single agreed upon definition for public safety grade.
- AT&T exec discusses core-to-core interoperability, Verizon proposal, FirstNet differentiators2017.08.17
Enabling interoperability between the FirstNet public-safety LTE core being built by AT&T and the LTE cores of Verizon or other carriers is feasible technically, but doing so would be a departure from the FirstNet request for proposals (RFP) and could introduce security issues for public safety, according to an AT&T executive.
- Verizon commits to building dedicated public-safety LTE core network in 20182017.08.15
Verizon will build a dedicated public-safety LTE core network next year that will be designed to provide public-safety customers with a viable option to the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) being developed by AT&T, according to a Verizon executive.
- PSAP personnel to receive priority, preemptive access on FirstNet2017.08.15
Dispatchers, call-takers and other personnel working in public-safety answering points will have priority access immediately to FirstNet—and preemptive access by the end of the year—FirstNet officials announce during the APCO 2017 show.
- States cite network coverage concerns as FirstNet comments period closes2017.08.09
As more states join the nationwide public safety network, some undecided states share concerns that AT&T's current coverage won't be enough.
July 2017
- AT&T exec shares capacity-based FirstNet Band 14 deployment plans with Congress2017.07.21
AT&T will deploy infrastructure on the 20 MHz of 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum that is licensed to FirstNet only in geographic locations where the carrier giant determines it needs additional bandwidth capacity, an AT&T executive said during a Senate subcommittee hearing.
June 2017
- Mixed Comments on Opt-Out Requirements, FirstNet Revises Interoperability Matrix.2017.06.19
The state of Colorado, Southern Linc and Rivada Networks submitted comments generally agreeing with the FCC’s draft order outlining proposed rules for states that choose to opt out of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) state plans.
- FirstNet, AT&T release state plans, governors to make ‘opt-in/opt-out’ decisions by mid-December2017.06.19
Public-safety organizations in certain states could begin using a prioritized FirstNet service on AT&T’s commercial network very soon, if their governors decide to accept the initial state plans delivered today by FirstNet that outline the deployment of the much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- FirstNet’s Sue Swenson expresses confidence in AT&T’s ability to make network vision a reality2017.06.13
When AT&T won the nationwide FirstNet contract, some expressed concern that the telecommunications giant could be so focused on its massive commercial business that the public-safety initiative would be overshadowed. FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson says early indications from AT&T officials make her confident that the carrier has the proper public-safety-centric focus to build the public-safety broadband network.
- Redl discusses FirstNet, spectrum sharing during nomination hearing for NTIA post2017.06.08
David Redl, President Donald Trump’s nominee to head the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), pledged during his nomination hearing to maximize use of federal-government spectrum and help ensure a successful FirstNet deployment, if he is confirmed to serve in the post.
- FirstNet, AT&T drop ‘draft state plan’ term, announce process for early ‘opt-in’ decisions2017.06.08
Governors will have an opportunity to accept the FirstNet state plan for deploying a public-safety broadband network within the borders as soon as this month, a FirstNet official announces at the organization’s meeting of state points of contact (SPOCs) in the Dallas area.
- Rivada fights on, aims to provide states with alternative to AT&T’s FirstNet2017.06.05
Rivada Networks might have lost the FirstNet contract to AT&T, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t still in the game.
- FCC releases FirstNet opt-out guidelines; 9 states probe market2017.06.02
States pursuing alternative plans would be given 240 days after opt-out notification to complete procurement and could use a separate state core network, according to a draft of new rules.
- AT&T seeks tough standards for FirstNet opt-outs2017.06.02
AT&T, which won the $6.5 billion contract to build and operate the planned wireless broadband public safety network FirstNet, wants tough standards for states that want to opt out and build their own systems.
- FirstNet draft state plans expected to be delivered around June 19, AT&T exec says2017.06.01
FirstNet plans to deliver draft state plans depicting the public-safety LTE deployment plans for each U.S. state and territory as part of contractor AT&T’s nationwide Band 14 700 MHz buildout on June 19, “give or take a day,” an AT&T executive says during a conference.
May 2017
- AT&T CEO expects accelerated FirstNet buildout, promises hardening, ‘ruthless preemption’ for public safety2017.05.23
AT&T expects to deploy the Band 14 FirstNet public-safety LTE network “much quicker” than the five-year schedule included in the request for proposals (RFP), and first-responder subscribers will have “ruthless preemption” access rights on the system, according to AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson.
- FirstNet has only one vendor - AT&T - but states are quietly sizing up other choices2017.05.23
There's a battle being waged behind the scenes of public safety's first nationwide wireless network.
- FirstNet begins to build its ecosystem2017.05.18
"FirstNet is in the process of putting together its own ecosystem," FirstNet board member Teri Takai said at a May 17 event in Washington D.C. "There will be a developer platform, there’ll be testing and certification, there’ll be an app store for distribution of those applications.... That infrastructure is going to be important. "
- Life-saving Preparation: How AT&T Plans for Hurricane Season2017.05.17
The National Weather Service says an average of 3 hurricanes hit the U.S. coastline every 2 years. AT&T exercises their Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) team and assets multiple times per year for these and other disasters.
- Motorola Solutions ‘thrilled’ about FirstNet, but role on AT&T team still being finalized2017.05.05
Motorola Solutions is excited to be part of AT&T’s winning nationwide team, but the company’s role in the nationwide public-safety broadband deployment have not been determined fully, Motorola Solutions officials acknowledged during the first-quarter earnings call.
- Courting FirstNet Participants, AT&T Touts Network Upgrades Across Eight States2017.05.05
In a series of releases, AT&T highlighted investments it made in Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, and Virginia in 2016, noting specifically that those have laid the groundwork for construction of its public safety broadband network.
- AT&T Invests More than $1.3 Billion over 3-Year Period to Enhance Local Networks in New York2017.05.04
AT&T News release describing three years of investments in New York.
April 2017
- Drone update: AT&T adds larger drones with more radios2017.04.25
AT&T is adding more radios to its cell sites on wings, or COWs as the company likes to call them. The latest COW tests took place in Houston, where AT&T’s network disaster recovery team worked with first responders to practice recovering from the loss of an entire central office facility.
- AT&T targets draft state plans in June, outlines business case behind its FirstNet bid2017.04.25
AT&T officials say that the carrier plans to work with FirstNet to release draft state plans in June and expects governors to make opt-out decisions during the fourth quarter of this year, when the company’s goal is to have all 56 states and territories accept the nationwide FirstNet deployment plans.
- FirstNet Shares Best Practices With Global Peers2017.04.19
While FirstNet and AT&T begin work to bring a dedicated, wireless broadband network to public safety nationwide, other countries are pursuing similar nationwide systems and are looking to FirstNet for best practices.
- FirstNet CEO, AT&T official provide further details about 25-year contract for first-responder network2017.04.10
AT&T plans to provide “very aggressive” pricing for its FirstNet subscription packages, and the carrier has pledged $18 billion to ensure that the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) receives regular technological and coverage upgrades during the 25-year contract period, according to officials for AT&T and FirstNet.
- FirstNet dangles $16B of investment for rural expansion of public safety network2017.04.06
On the heels of scoring a nationwide build out deal with AT&T, FirstNet CEO Michael Poth told CCA members the organization would have billions more to invest.
- FirstNet Receives Another “Clean” Audit Opinion2017.04.05
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) has received a “clean” audit opinion for its financial management practices for Fiscal Year 2016.
- AT&T, FirstNet officials provide new perspectives on governors’ ‘opt-out’ decision process2017.04.05
AT&T and FirstNet officials provide new details about information that governors should consider when deciding whether their states and territories should accept the FirstNet deployment plan or choose to pursue the “opt-out” alternative.
- AT&T consolidates federal, state and local government operations, taps Kapoor to lead new group 2017.04.04
AT&T is consolidating its federal, state and local public sector operations into one Global Public Sector organization.
- Court releases redacted decision in FirstNet case; Rivada Mercury disagrees with criticisms of its proposal2017.04.04
Evaluators determined that Rivada Mercury’s proposal to build and maintain FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) was “risky” because of uncertainty surrounding third-party funding, teaming agreements and its wholesale-broadband-market business plan, according to a court ruling released last Friday.
- Key takeaways from the FirstNet-Rivada Mercury ruling2017.04.03
A public ruling issued in the pre-award bid protest case of Rivada Mercury offers more insight into the process that ultimately resulted in AT&T last week being awarded the contract for the nationwide public safety LTE network under the auspices of the First Responders Network Authority.
March 2017
- NPSTC Board Approves Reports on Broadband Deployable Systems, UAS Deployment2017.03.31
The governing board of the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council today approved reports on broadband deployable systems (BBDS) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).
- Officials promise preemption for public-safety subscribers across FirstNet and AT&T networks2017.03.31
Public-safety subscribers in “opt in” states that accept the FirstNet deployment plan could have preemptive priority on FirstNet’s 700 MHz Band 14 network and throughout AT&T’s vast commercial networks by the end of the year, FirstNet and AT&T officials said yesterday.
- FirstNet, NTIA officials provide insights to ‘opt-out’ process on eve of award announcement2017.03.30
States and territories will have critical financial-obligation information regarding payments to FirstNet for the use of spectrum and core network assets as governors decide whether their states should pursue the ‘opt-out’ alternative to the nationwide FirstNet deployment, officials for FirstNet and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) said yesterday.
- AT&T Selected by FirstNet to Build and Manage America’s First Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network Dedicated to First Responders2017.03.30
AT&T has been selected by the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to build and manage the first broadband network dedicated to America’s police, firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS). The FirstNet network will cover all 50 states, 5 U.S. territories and the District of Columbia, including rural communities and tribal lands in those states and territories.
- FirstNet Partners with AT&T to Build Wireless Broadband Network for America's First Responders2017.03.30
Today the Department of Commerce and First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) announced the selection of AT&T to build the first nationwide wireless broadband network dedicated to America’s first responders.
- FirstNet Passes Resolution to Finalize Contract for Nationwide LTE Network.2017.03.28
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board passed a resolution Tuesday giving FirstNet CEO Mike Poth the authority to finalize the contract for a nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN). During the meeting, Poth said he would work to finalize the contract within the week.
- FirstNet reschedules special board meeting for March 28, vote for AT&T procurement win still expected2017.03.24
FirstNet announces that its board will conduct a special meeting next Tuesday—a day earlier than previously announced—when a vote is expected to set the stage for AT&T to be awarded with a 25-year deal to deploy and maintain the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- AT&T's FirstNet buildout could start as early as June, Barclays says2017.03.20
AT&T could start deploying the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) as early as June if it is awarded the contract next month.
- Judge rules for U.S. government in FirstNet court case, clearing path for expected AT&T award2017.03.17
A federal judge rules against Rivada Mercury’s protest against the FirstNet procurement protest, a move that is expected to set the stage for AT&T to be awarded the 25-year contract to build and maintain the much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- Maximizing the potential of the NPSBN and NG9112017.03.13
Both the next-generation 911 (NG911) and the nationwide public-safety broadband networks (NPSBN) promise to be game-changing public-safety communications networks. They will be even better, if they are integrated properly.
- AT&T Optimistic About FirstNet Spectrum, Funding Advantages.2017.03.08
AT&T executives are optimistic about its chances of winning the contract for the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) and the contract’s potential opportunities.
- FirstNet's Message To Tech: First Responders Could Be The Next Big Market2017.03.01
There at least 5.4 million first responders in the United States, and consumer tech companies should think about ways to modify their products for public safety use, one senior official says.
February 2017
- Government officials anxious for FirstNet clarity while contemplating long-term plans2017.02.28
Public safety may have the greatest interest in the outcome of a court decision that could clarify when FirstNet will be able to award its nationwide contract, but many other sectors also could be impacted.
- Judge schedules oral arguments in FirstNet case for March 32017.02.23
Oral arguments in the lawsuit filed by the Rivada Mercury bidding team protesting evaluations in the FirstNet procurement process will be heard next Friday, March 3, a federal judge ruled today.
- Final written briefs submitted in FirstNet protest case, court to determine next step2017.02.16
Officials for the U.S. Department of Justice and AT&T today submitted the final scheduled written briefs in the Rivada Mercury lawsuit protesting its elimination from the FirstNet nationwide procurement in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, which will decide whether further input is needed before making a decision in the case.
- FirstNet Officials Meet With EMS Medical Directors at NAEMSP Conference 2017.02.09
FirstNet officials recently attended the National Association of EMS Physicians (NAEMSP) conference. NAEMSP is a national organization representing EMS physicians responsible for medical care in an out-of-hospital setting.
- All eyes on court as decision time approaches in FirstNet case2017.02.09
Next week, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims is expected to receive the final written brief in the lawsuit filed by Rivada Mercury protesting the FirstNet procurement process. How long will it be until the court reaches a decision, which promises to impact the timing of FirstNet's deployment nationwide?
- Nascent Public-Safety LTE Proximity Services Market Faces Obstacles.2017.02.07
The market for proximity services (ProSe) in public-safety Long Term Evolution (LTE) devices - called direct mode or off network in LMR systems - is uncertain because of a lack of public-safety standards and commitments from chipmakers for the technology.
January 2017
- House Passes Bill to Make it Easier for First Responders to Acquire New Technologies2017-01-30
House Bill would require FEMA to develop a transparent process to review requests by first responders to use their Urban Area Security Initiative or State Homeland Security Grant Program funds to purchase equipment.
- Pai FCC’s First Commission-Level Vote Targets Rural Broadband Access2017-01-30
In its first action under the leadership of Chairman Ajit Pai, the FCC voted to allow the State Of NY to award up to $170 million in Connect America Fund (CAF) funding to expand broadband access in unserved, rural portions of New York State.
- FirstNet Innovation and Test Lab Blog Series: Testing Coverage Reliability2017-01-27
FirstNet's Innovation and Test Laboratory is open for business and ready to support research and feature verification of public safety technologies, verifying mission critical technologies are ready for public safety.
- AT&T expresses optimism about FirstNet prospect, might accelerate deployment with tax reform2017-01-26
Top AT&T executives yesterday noted that the possibility of the carrier winning the nationwide FirstNet award is one of several “potentially very good things” that could happen this year. Another is tax reform that would lead to the telecom giant paying a lower corporate tax rate, allowing the company to invest the money necessary to accelerate the deployment of various initiatives, including the potential FirstNet buildout.
- Commerce Secretary nominee Ross expresses support for ‘concept’ of FirstNet2017-01-24
Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee members today approved President Donald Trump's Commerce Secretary nominee Wilbur Ross, who expressed support for the ‘concept’ of FirstNet during his nomination hearing last week.
- Filings in Rivada Protest of FirstNet RFP Sealed2017-01-20
Protest filings proceed on schedule as the third of five required submittals is entered into the record in Rivada’s pre-award protest of FirstNet's contract award for the National Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN).
- FirstNet Aims to Help with Innovative Public Safety Apps 2017-01-13
In addition to building a broadband network for public safety personnel, FirstNet is also leading the way on a host of public safety-focused technologies, not the least of which is bringing to market the best possible software applications for public safety to use in emergencies and day to day scenarios.
- CES 2017: Officials Talk FirstNet, Public Safety Technology2017-01-05
As electronics giants revealed their latest partnerships and products at CES 2017 in Las Vegas, a group of public safety professionals gathered for an update on FirstNet and a panel discussion about what’s needed, and how industry might fill that need.
December 2016
- FirstNet opens $30M grant for broadband apps and innovations2016-12-28
In order to harness ideas from academia, nonprofits and the private sector, NIST has established a $30 million grant fund for organizations that can deliver digital tools for the nation's first public-safety communications network.
- FirstNet Outlines Operational Readiness, First 100 Days for Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network 2016-12-14
At its recent board meeting, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) outlined its readiness to deploy the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (Network), including a plan to ensure progress on key Network components in the first 100 days after contract award.
- FirstNet preparing network policies for nationwide contractor, opt-out states2016-12-13
FirstNet’s technical staff has established a draft set of network policies that will be followed throughout the United States, whether the radio access network (RAN) is deployed by FirstNet’s nationwide contractor or by opt-out states.
- Why FirstNet is Needed Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 2016-12-09
As FirstNet progresses toward the deployment of the nationwide public safety broadband Network (“Network”), here are what one 29-year fire service communications veteran believes to be the top reasons why the Network is not only needed by the fire service, but how it is going to revolutionize the way they respond to incidents and emergencies.
- Why public safety should be excited by FirstNet’s prospects, despite potential delays2016-12-06
Rivada Mercury is suing to protest its removal from consideration for the FirstNet procurement, noting the strengths of its proposal. Now that the evaluation team has deemed that Rivada Mercury's proposal is not in the "competitive range," it is intriguing to consider how good AT&T's offer may be.
- AT&T states belief that its FirstNet bid is the only one within the ‘competitive range’2016-12-05
AT&T confirmed that its FirstNet bid is within the “competitive range”—the designation for the “most highly rated” proposals in a federal procurement—and that company officials believe it is lone proposal in this category, according to an AT&T regulatory filing submitted on Friday.
- AT&T is apparent selection to build FirstNet, as Rivada Mercury files protest over elimination from bid2016-12-02
Rivada Mercury is protesting its elimination from consideration to become FirstNet’s contractor to build and operate the much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN)—an action that points to AT&T as the selected bidder.
November 2016
- 10 questions people want answered when FirstNet names its contractor2016-11-22
Public safety has questions that it wants answered, no matter who is chosen to build and operate FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN). Here are some of the most notable questions.
- FirstNet Lab opens for public safety testing2016-11-10
The First Responders Network Authority opened a testing lab where devices and applications will be evaluated for use on the planned national public safety LTE network.
- Rivada’s Ganley calls on FirstNet to share revenues with states, provide free service to public safety2016-11-04
FirstNet should change its legal stance to allow states to share surplus revenues and provide public safety with a free-service package for public safety in order to make the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) successful.
- FirstNet will follow federal procurement rules, but delays in the process will not be allowed, CEO Poth says2016-11-03
FirstNet will not cut procedural corners or accept unnecessary delays as it enters the final stages of the procurement to select a contractor that will be tasked to build and maintain a nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) for the next 25 years, FirstNet CEO Mike Poth said yesterday.
October 2016
- Morgan O'Brien reflects on dismissed bid for nationwide FirstNet contract, potential for public safety2016-10-31
Morgan O'Brien, the co-founder of Nextel Communications and vice chairman of pdvWireless, discusses his thoughts on the FirstNet RFP process and his continued belief in its mission, despite pdvWireless bid's removal from consideration two weeks ago.
- FirstNet contractor will not be announced by Nov. 1 target date, according to FirstNet CEO Poth2016-10-27
FirstNet has made “significant progress” in the evaluation of proposals from bidding teams vying for the right to build and maintain a nationwide public-safety broadband network, but procurement process will extend “beyond the Nov. 1 target date for the award,
- Need for FirstNet Greater Than Ever, First Responders Say2016-10-20
The government organization charged with building the nation’s first high-speed data network for first responders says it will make its first contract award soon. It will likely happen in November, although no firm date is set.
- What the elimination of pdvWireless may indicate about the timing of the overall FirstNet project2016-10-20
Just two weeks before FirstNet's target date of Nov. 1 to announce the winning contractor, pdvWireless disclosed that its bidding team is no longer in contention. A review of federal procurement rules reveals that the notification also may indicate that Nov. 1 is not a realistic date to unveil the contractor—and that's OK, as long as the procurement is executed properly.
- Inside look: Fire, emergency responders test FirstNet2016-10-20
Public safety providers in central Ohio had the chance to experience the future of broadband for managing emergency incidents.
- pdvWireless dropped from FirstNet consideration2016-10-19
pdvWireless, one of three publicly confirmed companies leading a bidding team that was vying for the right to build FirstNet’s nationwide network for public safety, this week received official written notice that its proposal no longer is being considered for the FirstNet award, according to the company’s latest SEC filing.
- Rivada Tells Its Bandwidth Commoditization Story2016-10-19
Mobile bandwidth is too important to leave in the hands of a powerful few when it could be used far more efficiently via an electronic trading marketplace. At least that’s how Rivada Networks sees it.
- NASEMSO Announces Resolutions Supporting CARES and FirstNet2016-10-11
At its recent Fall Meeting, the National Association of State Emergency Medical Services Officials (NASEMSO) passed resolutions on two important issues, one of which champions the First Responder Network Authority as the nationwide broadband network for EMS.
- State RFPs for FirstNet highlight intriguing issues for public safety’s 700 MHz narrowband spectrum2016-10-06
Many in public safety have expressed resistance to the notion that some states are exploring the notion of migrating 700 MHz public-safety narrowband spectrum to broadband use, citing legitimate concerns. But the reality is that public safety needs to examine all options to better utilize this band, or it could risk losing this very valuable spectrum.
September 2016
- FirstNet Making Progress Towards Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network2016-09-08
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) took another step closer to the implementation of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN) with the approval of a budget package for Fiscal Year (FY) 2017.
- IAFC Votes to Support FirstNet 2016-09-08
As the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the IAFC has voted to support the enhancement of communications for responders.
- New Hampshire approves contract with Rivada Networks, but state official insists no FirstNet opt-out decision has been made2016-09-08
New Hampshire’s governor and executive council voted unanimously to approve a contract with Rivada Networks to build a public-safety LTE radio-access network (RAN) throughout the state, if New Hampshire does decide to opt out of FirstNet next year.
- FirstNet’s first steps2016-09-06
This article looks at FirstNet’s five Early Builder projects for lessons learned. Focusing on different aspects of first responder use, the projects will help FirstNet evaluate technical standards and capabilities, test new equipment and refine plans for future rollouts.
August 2016
- Experts: States play key role in coordinating FirstNet, next-gen 911 efforts 2016-08-22
A panel of public safety communications experts is hoping to see states team up with their first responders to coordinate the two intertwined connectivity efforts.
- NPSTC Delves Into Prehospital Video for EMS As FirstNet Approaches 2016-08-19
As efforts continue to roll out the FirstNet 700 MHz broadband communications network for U.S.-based first responders, the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) has been studying which applications would be most useful for EMS agencies (among others).
- Setting the Stage: Early Builder Projects Provide FirstNet Education 2016-08-01
Early Builder programs make it clear that public safety authorities can expect to meet a range of technical and cultural hurdles on the road to FirstNet deployment.
July 2016
- Decision on LMR-to-LTE migration for mission-critical voice should be made by public safety2016-07-29
Public safety’s mission-critical voice communications someday may be transmitted over FirstNet’s nationwide LTE system, but elected officials and government administrators should not retire land-mobile-radio (LMR) networks until first responders express confidence in the LTE-based offering.
- RFP competition should improve chances that FirstNet vision can become a reality for public safety2016-07-26
With solid companies participating in the three announced teams, and the likelihood of other unannounced bids, the chances are good that the evaluation team will be able to make a selection that meets the multilayered RFP criteria the FirstNet board seeks.
- FirstNet Outlines Key Steps for Development of State Plans, Interoperability Requirements2016-07-08
FirstNet’s Chief Customer Officer outlines key steps FirstNet is taking to define clear and specific information about network requirements, in particular, those details necessary to inform "opt-out" state RANs.
- Coordinating cybersecurity efforts between 911 and FirstNet promises to be critical for public safety2016-07-07
Cybersecurity promises to be a major challenge for public safety as it migrates to IP-based FirstNet and next-generation 911 technologies. Developing a coordinated cybersecurity strategy for 911, FirstNet and the important interface between the systems is critical.
- CAUSE IV - Lessons Learned From the U.S. Canadian Cross-Border Experiment 2016-07-06
Canada's Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), their Defence Research and Development Canada’s Centre for Security Science (DRDC CSS) and Public Safety Canada collaborated with the United States on a cross-border experiment.
- FirstNet prepares for deployment of nationwide public safety broadband network2016-07-06
FirstNet moved forward with its preparations for a public-private-partnership to deploy and operate a nationwide public safety broadband network including the establishment of a Chief Customer Officer (CCO) and Network Program Officer (NPO).
- FirstNet must balance transparency, security goals during upcoming talks with state, public-safety officials2016-07-05
FirstNet officials have promised considerable outreach to states and public safety as deployment plans for each state and territory are finalized and distributed. But balancing the desire for transparency and the need for security during these processes could prove challenging.
June 2016
- Poth indicates that FirstNet will have final say whether to execute contractor award2016-06-30
An evaluation team is in the process of selecting the best proposal to build the much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network, but FirstNet ultimately will decide whether to execute a contract with the selected offeror team, FirstNet CEO Mike Poth said during today’s open board meeting.
- Big-picture question about FirstNet’s commercial role bubbles to the surface2016-06-29
After years of asking FirstNet officials whether it will build a nationwide public-safety network, federal lawmakers last week asked whether the FirstNet system would compete with existing commercial telecom providers. Yes, it will—just as Congress ordered when it established FirstNet more than four years ago.
- If FirstNet is not the answer, does someone have a better alternative?2016-06-23
FirstNet's novel RFP approach might be a template for self-sustaining public-private partnerships
- National Governors Association Director Jeffrey S. McLeod Testifies Before Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Communications2016-06-21
Jeffrey S. McLeod, Director, Homeland Security and Public Safety Division, National Governors Association’s Center for Best Practices provides a governor's viewpoint in his testimony on “Firstnet Oversight: An Update on the Status of the Public Safety Broadband Network” before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation and the Internet.
- FirstNet CEO Poth Testifies Before Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Communications2016-06-21
FirstNet CEO Mike Poth testified before the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet at a hearing titled, “FirstNet Oversight: An Update on the Status of the Public Safety Broadband Network." In his remarks, Mike stressed the importance of remembering that “this is not FirstNet’s network; this is public safety’s network. The public safety community fought for the creation of FirstNet, and it is up to us to achieve their vision.”
- pdvWireless announces bid for FirstNet, belief that FCC will release NOI on 900 MHz broadband proposal2016-06-16
Officials for pdvWireless confirm the company’s much-rumored bid to build a nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN) for FirstNet.
- Building the Internet of Lifesaving Things 2016-06-09
EMS is on the cusp of a revolution. Are you ready for communication technologies that will turn the back of your ambulance into a remote emergency room?
- Convergence between public-safety and commercial communications not just a one-way street2016-06-09
Convergence to date primarily has been a function of public safety moving toward technologies used in commercial communications, but there are indications that public safety's requirements could have a large impact on the manner in which the commercial world works in the future.
- Rivada Mercury unveils key partners of team pursuing FirstNet contract2016-06-07
While others seeking to build a nationwide public-safety broadband network for FirstNet remain silent, the one publicly confirmed bidder identified several key partners on its offeror team.
May 2016
- Cybersecurity experts outline challenges associated with FirstNet, other public-safety communications2016-05-19
FirstNet plans to provide state-of-the-art cybersecurity by employing innovative methods that offerors are expected to propose in the request-for-proposals (RFP) process, but the entire public-safety community needs to take action to help ensure that subscriber agencies are not negatively impacted by cyberthreats, according to a panel of cybersecurity experts.
- Ten years after O’Brien proposal, there is light at the end of the tunnel for public-safety broadband communications2016-05-17
May 17th marks the 10th anniversary of Morgan O’Brien unveiling his public-safety broadband vision during his IWCE 2006 keynote. Things did not progress as O'Brien outlined at the time, but many of the core principles presented that day are now part of FirstNet, which in two weeks is scheduled to receive proposals from teams willing to build and maintain a nationwide public-safety broadband network.
- Decision makers need to consider many layers when determining future role of mission-critical voice over LTE2016-05-13
Will mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) over LTE replace LMR services for first responders? The answer is not clear, but it is important that decisions are made based on accurate information, not on outdated statements that do not reflect recent technological developments.
April 2016
- Tech Talk: Updated Vehicular Network System Vision (VNS)2016-04-07
The VNS is a new product concept meant to address the communication needs of remote first responders immediately when they respond to incidents that are outside of terrestrial coverage, or if traditional coverage has become unavailable due to a natural or man made disaster. This blog describes FirstNet’s vision for the Vehicle Network System (VNS) role in incident deployment and coverage extension options.
- Will mission-critical PTT be FirstNet’s ‘killer app’?2016-04-07
With all of the broadband functionality promised by public-safety LTE, could mission-critical push-to-talk—a decidedly narrowband technology—be FirstNet's "killer app" that drives public-safety adoption?
- FirstNet outlines its device approval process 2016-04-05
Mobile carriers routinely conduct mobile device approval processes to verify that a device meets certain technical specifications and works well with their networks, so it makes sense that the nation's first Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN) would do so as well.
- Officials provide more specifics about mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) standard for LTE, FirstNet deployment2016-04-03
Functionalities associated with the new mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) standard for LTE are designed to meet or exceed the capabilities and performance benchmarks for existing land-mobile-radio (LMR) systems, but real-world testing is needed to determine whether MCPTT can overcome some physics limitations that will allow it to meet the needs of first responders, officials said during an IWCE 2016 session on the subject.
March 2016
- APTS Members Pledge to Support FirstNet; NPR Is Involved2016-03-16
Last month America’s Public Television Stations (APTS) committed to set aside spectrum for an upcoming first-responders network. The stations committed—at least in principle—to each allocating 1 Mbps of spectrum for the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), nationwide public safety network.
- FirstNet initiates $40 million grant program to relocate 700 MHz narrowband systems by August 20172016-03-16
FirstNet announces a $40 million federal grant program that is designed to help 15 public-safety entities move their existing LMR operations from the 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum that is licensed to FirstNet. The goal is to clear those airwaves by August 2017 for use by the contractor that will build and operate the proposed nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- 3GPP approves standard for mission-critical PTT (MCPTT) over LTE in Release 132016-03-15
Mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) functionality is now part of the LTE standard in Release 13. As a result, MCPTT-capable equipment should be available for FirstNet when Release 13 is scheduled to be implemented as early as 2018.
- FirstNet addresses network performance, rural partnerships and post-RFP negotiations in latest Q&A2016-03-10
FirstNet's response to RFP questions includes clarifications about network performance, rural-coverage partnerships and post-RFP negotiations with bidders, as well as substantial clarification regarding requirements on manufacturing origin of equipment.
February 2016
- Early Builders Blog: LA-RICS Demonstration at the Tournament of Roses Parade2016-02-25
The annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California and its hundreds of thousands of spectators proved to be a prime case study for the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System Authority (LA-RICS) BTOP project use by multiple public safety agencies during a large public venue.
- NG911 capabilities, cybersecurity concerns take center stage at FirstNet hearing2016-02-22
The First Responder Network Authority addressed congressional concerns regarding cybersecurity and NG911 during a hearing before the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on communications and technology earlier this month.
- The FirstNet Request for Proposal: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly2016-02-04
Editorial by Andrew Seybold regarding the recently released NPSBN RFP.
- PSAC Task Teams on ICAM, Local Control Kick Off Work 2016-02-01
Chief Harlin R. McEwen, Chairman, Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC), outlines key PSAC activities planned for 2016.
January 2016
- Want to keep track of FirstNet’s progress? Here are some key dates, milestones to remember2016-01-28
When is FirstNet going to be built and provide the kind of reliable broadband services that the public-safety community has been seeking for the past decade? Here's one projection, based on FirstNet's RFP, current law and target deadlines for the key LTE standards body.
- Does the FirstNet RFP Address States’ Coverage Objectives?2016-01-26
Several state single points of contact (SPOCs) are generally happy with the coverage details included in the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) request for proposals (RFP), released earlier this month. The timeline for buildout is one area of concern, however.
- FirstNet Evaluating Key Indoor Location Technologies to Help Solve 'Z-Axis’ Challenges for Public Safety2016-01-15
The necessity for vertical location identification (height above or below ground level) is critical for first responders. FirstNet is researching and analyzing different indoor location technologies at its technical headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. This article describes some of the technologies under evaluation.
- FirstNet Releases RFP with $100B Ceiling for 25-Year Contract2016-01-13
The First Responder Network Authority issued its request for proposals (RFP) for the deployment of the nationwide public-safety broadband network. Highlights of the RFP include….
- FirstNet Issues RFP for the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network2016-01-13
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) today issued its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the deployment of the nationwide public safety broadband network, marking a major step forward in FirstNet's efforts to modernize communications for first responders and other public safety personnel across the U.S.
- AT&T expresses interest in FirstNet opportunity, plans to ‘pursue it aggressively’2016-01-07
Three of the four nationwide wireless carriers express mixed interest about the upcoming opportunity to partner with FirstNet to construct a nationwide public-safety network, with AT&T being enthusiastic about the prospect, T-Mobile showing more interest in the upcoming 600 MHz incentive auction and Verizon declining to comment on the matter.
- Some key questions that potential bidders want answered in FirstNet’s RFP2016-01-07
FirstNet has not released its request for proposal (RFP) yet, but here are some of the items that potential bidders hope will be addressed in the procurement document.
December 2015
- FirstNet works around lack of data, applications standards2015-12-18
The NPSBN will be based upon open, standards-based technology, but a complete set of standards aren't yet available to assure interoperability. Specifically, standards exist for network infrastructure and services but not for data access and applications.
- PSAC report: Priority, preemption issues on FirstNet likely limited to secondary users, not public safety2015-12-16
FirstNet LTE sites should provide enough bandwidth capacity to serve the needs of public-safety users in almost all response scenarios, according to findings by a Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) task team studying the topic.
- NTIA proposes rules to review, approve FirstNet fees each year2015-12-15
Many key FirstNet fees will be reviewed by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to determine whether the fees generate enough revenue to cover FirstNet’s expenses but are not excessive, according to an NTIA proposal that will be the subject of a public proceeding for the next month.
- FirstNet board approves final RFP for early-January release, with bids due in May2015-12-09
FirstNet board members unanimously vote to have the FirstNet staff release the final request for proposal (RFP) in early January, allowing vendor teams that want to build a much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network to submit public-private-partnership proposals that will be due in May.
- NPSTC Seeks Volunteers for Three New Broadband & Technology Working Groups2015-12-03
NPSTC's Governing Board recently approved the creation of three new Working Groups that will operate under the Broadband and Technology Committee. They are LMR to LTE Migration, Broadband Emerging Technologies, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Robotics.
November 2015
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) to the NPSBN2015-11-23
Recognizing that the public safety user community will demand support for personal devices on the nationwide public safety broadband network (NPSBN), FirstNet is taking steps to develop and implement an effective BYOD policy.
- NPSTC - Andy Seybold’s Public Safety Advocate, November 21, 20152015-11-21
The big news for the week has to be the continued crumbling of LA-RICS. According to an article in Urgent Communications. ) LA City opted out of the LA-RICs consortium by a vote of 12-0. The immediate impact to LA-RICS and to Motorola is the loss of the City of LA for the construction of the new LA-RICS LMR radio system. The City says that they can save money by enhancing their own existing LMR system instead of spending money with LA-RICS.
- FirstNet remains focused on year-end RFP release, officials say2015-11-12
FirstNet still plans to release its much-anticipated final request-for-proposal (RFP) document by the end of this year as preparation continues for the FirstNet board meeting that is scheduled to be conducted in less than four weeks, according to a spokesman for the organization.
- FirstNet User Advocacy Outreach Team Adds 9-1-1, EMS, and Fire Advisors2015-11-10
The FirstNet User Advocacy Outreach team has expanded its roster of public safety experts with the addition of three Senior Advisors who specialize in the fields of 9-1-1, EMS, and Fire.
- FCC Seeks Comment on FirstNet Band 14 Incumbent Relocation Requests2015-11-06
FirstNet told the FCC its board recently approved a spectrum relocation grant program designed to facilitate relocation of band 14 incumbents and that it expects funding for the grant program to be released early next year.
October 2015
- Swenson named CEO of Novatel Wireless, will continue as FirstNet chairwoman2015-10-29
Novatel Wireless—an Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provider and the inventor of MiFi mobile-hotspot technology—announces that Sue Swenson is the company’s new CEO and will continue to chair its board of directors.
- 2015 IACP Conference Highlights Ways FirstNet, Technology Can Drive Innovation for Policing2015-10-28
The 2015 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference wrapped up in Chicago yesterday, with more than 14,000 attendees from across the world.
- FirstNet Gets 40 Responses to Cyber Appendix2015-10-24
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) has received 40 submissions from industry and states in response to a draft appendix that it released earlier this month (TRDaily, Oct. 5).
- Analysts still backing FirstNet/Verizon partnership 'conspiracy theory'2015-10-22
After an Oct. 19 webinar hosted by FirstNet that laid out its key criteria in selecting a partner, analysts from Evercore ISI are standing by their prediction that Verizon (NYSE: VZ) could partner with FirstNet.
- Spotlight: Legal interpretations make it unlikely states, territories will opt out of FirstNet2015-10-21
Last week, the board responsible for standing up a nationwide, interoperable broadband network for first responders, or FirstNet, issued 64 legal interpretations under the law mandating the network. Among them, reports Donny Jackson at Urgent Communications, were indicators that "opting out" of the nationwide network is not really a practical option for states and territories.
- Kennedy: FirstNet Pleased with FCC Auction Anti-Collusion Guidance2015-10-20
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) President TJ Kennedy said on October 19 that the authority is pleased with guidance that FCC staff released earlier this month concerning whether parties would violate the agency’s anti-collusion rules surrounding the incentive auction if they also had discussions regarding FirstNet’s request for proposals (RFP) (TRDaily, Oct. 6).
- Congress grants five-year extension for LA-RICS, other BTOP grant recipients2015-10-19
Although the initial deployment phase of its public-safety LTE system essentially is done, the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) has secured a five-year extension from Congress that will let it and other Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) grant recipients utilize unspent funds through fiscal year 2020.
- FirstNet CTO optimistic for smartphone partnerships2015-10-19
According to FirstNet's acting Chief Technology Officer Jeff Bratcher, the organization "would love" iPhones to support the network's Band 14 spectrum, but says implementing the technology is a "chicken and egg discussion."
- FirstNet Releases Dozens of Final Interpretations2015-10-16
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) today released two public notices that include more than 60 final legal interpretations on issues raised in public notices released in September 2014 and in March (TRDaily, Sept. 17, 2014, and March 9).
- FirstNet Posts Final Legal Interpretations (First and Second Public Notices)2015-10-15
FirstNet has posted the pre-publication versions of its final legal interpretations of certain provisions of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 as approved by the Board earlier this month.
- FirstNet: Final Interpretations Include State Input2015-10-13
Officials from the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) said the 64 final legal interpretations set to be released in the next few days include changes based on input from states and territories, specifically rural and coverage interpretations. Staff also outlined the state consultation plan for 2016.
- Wireless Broadband in Public Safety Market worth 22.9 Billion USD by 20202015-10-13
The global wireless broadband in public safety market is projected to grow from USD 15.5 Billion in 2014 to USD 22.9 Billion by 2020, at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period, 2015 to 2020.
- Did you blink during the last few weeks? If so, here are some things you may have missed.2015-10-13
A lot is happening in the critical-communications arena right now, whether the topic is next-generation 911, cybersecurity or FirstNet, and it may be difficult for people in these industries to monitor everything. This article provides a summary of some notable recent news items and attempts to “connect the dots” between them.
- FirstNet: Final Interpretations Include State Input2015-10-13
Officials from the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) said the final legal interpretations set to be released soon include changes based on input from states, specifically rural and coverage interpretations. FirstNet staff also outlined the state consultation plan for 2016.
- NPSTC Sends Local Control Needs and Use Cases to PSAC2015-10-13
The Act establishing the First Responder Network Authority requires FirstNet to actively consult with public safety about its various needs. The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) has been working on broadband requirements since 2009 and presents its latest report and recommendations to the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) for consideration by FirstNet.
- Rural carriers still trying to assess FirstNet opportunity2015-10-08
Less than a week after the FirstNet board approved a nationwide procurement strategy to build its public-safety broadband network, rural carriers remain hopeful that FirstNet’s stated interest in their infrastructure assets will mean they have a chance to partner in the massive project, panelists said yesterday at the Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) conference.
- FIRSTNET TEAM ISSUES LIST OF CYBER CONCERNS2015-10-07
A proposed broadband network for the nation's public-safety professionals must be robust against intrusions -- but not so much it prevents those professionals from accessing it in emergencies, according to a new notice from FirstNet, the federal group planning it.
- FirstNet says opt-out states must share revenues, meet nationwide network policies2015-10-05
A state or territory that chooses the FirstNet opt-out alternative—thereby agreeing to build out the LTE radio access network (RAN) in its jurisdiction—will have to comply with all of FirstNet’s nationwide network policies and will not be able to keep all revenues generated within its boundaries, according to final legal interpretations approved by the FirstNet board.
- FirstNet opts for nationwide acquisition approach for final RFP2015-10-02
FirstNet board members approve a resolution to accept only national deployment offers for its final request for proposal (RFP), removing the possibility that a bidder could be selected to build out the network for a single state or region.
- New Jersey, Pennsylvania officials highlight successful public-safety LTE use during papal visit2015-10-02
As Pope Francis visited Philadelphia last weekend, law-enforcement personnel responsible for ensuring the pontiff’s safety had unprecedented access to real-time video and other key applications, thanks to the use of deployable public-safety LTE units provided by the state of New Jersey’s JerseyNet program.
- FirstNet Board Approves Key RFP Elements, Final Public Notice Interpretations2015-10-02
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board approved key elements of its Request for Proposal(s) (RFP), approved the release of final legal interpretations of certain provisions of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012, and evaluation factors for the RFP.
September 2015
- Updated FirstNet Operational Architecture would make winning bidder responsible for most functions2015-09-24
FirstNet’s winning partner—likely a team of commercial partners—would have ownership of more than 63% of the system functions, with public-safety entities being responsible primarily for user-management issues regarding devices and applications, according to FirstNet’s updated Operational Architecture document released earlier this month.
- Equipping Volunteer Responders with Broadband Technologies2015-09-23
Volunteer first responders play an important role in keeping our communities safe, particularly in rural areas. FirstNet team members recently had the opportunity to join the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad (WVRS) in Maryland to get a firsthand look at how wireless broadband is already improving emergency response for this volunteer agency.
- FirstNet in Action: JerseyNet Broadband Network Provides Unobstructed Data Connectivity to First Responders during Atlantic City Concerts2015-09-02
New Jersey’s first-ever real-world implementation of FirstNet was an unqualified success, setting a precedent for effectively using the National Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN) to improve communications, security and situational awareness at large-scale public events. The Atlantic City Police Department, in conjunction with the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (OHSP), deployed secure and portable technology during two concerts, allowing reliable, uninterrupted transmission of video, voice and radio communications without reliance on commercial broadband providers. The concerts - Maroon 5 on August 16 and Rascal Flatts on August 20 - took place in front of a combined audience of nearly 100,000 fans.
August 2015
- FirstNet shares more business-case information during Industry Day event2015-08-28
Partnering with FirstNet is a way for wireless providers to gain access to valuable spectrum assets in less time and with less upfront costs than traditional methods, such as bidding in FCC auctions, FirstNet officials told industry representatives yesterday during an Industry Day event.
- FirstNet plans to release cybersecurity information this fall, Kennedy says2015-08-21
FirstNet officials will provide information about the organization’s cybersecurity strategy this fall, beginning with its Industry Day next week, FirstNet President TJ Kennedy said this week during a panel session at the APCO 2015 show.
- FirstNet May Alter Final RFP after Feedback2015-08-19
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) may alter its final request for proposals (RFP) after getting feedback from parties after it is released at the end of this year, a FirstNet official said today during a session at the APCO 2015 show. James Mitchell, senior program manager-operations for FirstNet, unveiled a planned timeline leading up to the submission of offeror proposals in response to the final RFP. An industry day is scheduled for Aug. 27.
- U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Announces Members to Serve on FirstNet Board2015-08-19
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today named four leading experts on public safety, wireless broadband communications, and state and local government to serve three-year terms on the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board. FirstNet is an independent authority within Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) mandated by Congress to develop, build and operate the first nationwide wireless public safety broadband network. The network will enable better communication among local, state, regional, tribal, and national emergency services personnel, improving response time and saving lives.
- Harris County to expand public-safety LTE network, other early builders prepare to complete projects2015-08-19
Commissioners for Harris County, Texas, have approved $5.8 million in local funds to expand the county’s public-safety LTE network, while several other early-builder entities work to complete their broadband projects by the Sept. 30 deadline for the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), representatives said during a panel at the APCO 2015 show.
- FirstNet Board OKs $126M for FY 2016 Strategic Roadmap Projects; Sue Swenson Comments 2015-08-18
The First Responder Network Authority board has approved the proposed $126 million budget for several projects under its strategic program road map for fiscal year 2016. - See more at: http://www.executivegov.com/2015/08/firstnet-board-oks-126m-for-fy-2016-strategic-roadmap-projects-sue-swenson-comments/#sthash.233uQCsY.dpuf
- FirstNet names Michael Poth as new CEO, says TJ Kennedy to function in role of president2015-08-17
FirstNet today named technology veteran and former police captain Michael Poth as its new CEO—a new title within the organization—and longtime Acting Executive Director TJ Kennedy will “function in the role of president,” according to a press release on the matter.
- 3 States Outline Concerns, Recommendations in Comments to FirstNet2015-08-11
At least three states have made public their comments to the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) special notice and draft request for proposals (RFP), outlining areas of concern and recommendations for the federal entity.
- NPSTC issues response to FirstNet draft RFP2015-08-10
US public safety comms body the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) hassubmitted comments to the First Responder Network Authority’s Special Notice, which explains the proposed design and operation of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN).
- Mader Joins FirstNet Board of Directors2015-08-07
David Mader joined the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board of directors as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) designee to the board. Mader replaces Geovette Washington, who took a position at the University of Pittsburgh.
- FirstNet sets finance meeting for Aug. 6, special board meeting for Aug. 17, Industry Day for Aug. 272015-08-04
FirstNet announces a series of meetings in August, beginning with Thursday’s finance-committee meeting to discuss budget issues. FirstNet also has scheduled a special board meeting on Aug. 17 and the organization’s second Industry Day event, which will be conducted on Aug. 27.
July 2015
- FirstNet Assessing Comments, Capabilities Statements on Special Notice, Draft RFP Documents2015-07-31
Last month, FirstNet posted its final set of answers to the more than 650 questions received regarding the Special Notice and draft Request for Proposals (RFP) documents. This capped off five weeks of posting responses on a weekly basis to ensure that the entities and individuals that submitted questions got their answers in a timely manner.
- CCA urges FirstNet to take 'granular' approach to broadband network2015-07-30
The Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is urging the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to leverage existing facilities of multiple carriers to speed deployment of the nation's first public safety broadband network.
- FirstNet developing base stations for police cars, but deployment still several years away2015-07-23
FirstNet, which has been tasked with building a nationwide LTE network for emergency workers, is working to create portable cellular base stations that can ride inside police cars and other vehicles, thereby allowing emergency workers to quickly and easily deploy wireless networks in remote areas. However, FirstNet said the technology likely won't be deployed for several more years.
- Cost, coverage will be key to public-safety adoption of FirstNet2015-07-16
FirstNet is tasked with building a nationwide broadband network dedicated to public safety, but cost and coverage—not just prioritized service—will be critical factors in determining first responders’ willingness to subscribe to the much-anticipated FirstNet system.
- FirstNet Video Blog: Data Collection2015-07-16
FirstNet is pleased to present the following video on the data collection effort that is to be completed by September 30, 2015. FirstNet developed this video to review the key elements of data collection and explain its importance to FirstNet and public safety agencies at all levels of government.
- FirstNet helping to develop mobile communications systems as part of nationwide network 2015-07-14
The organization behind a national effort to build an interoperable broadband communications network for police, firefighters, paramedics and other first responders is also looking to develop mobile systems that would provide temporary coverage for emergency personnel when they're outside the network.
- LA-RICS works toward September public-safety LTE deadline, opponents still claim RF-emissions danger2015-07-14
There is a lot of work to be done, but the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) still plans to complete the deployment of its public-safety LTE system by the end of September, although the project continues to receive opposition from groups claiming dangers from radio-frequency (RF) emissions.
- How FirstNet Will Broaden Communications2015-07-01
Step by step, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is slogging its way to creating a nationwide public safety broadband network (NPSBN) in the 700MHz band. “Sometimes it feels like things are moving at light speed,” says Kevin McGinnis, FirstNet board member, paramedic and chief of Maine’s North East Mobile Health Services. “Other times, it’s like a long, slow march.”
- FirstNet studying methods to improve location detection in tall buildings, underground 2015-07-01
Pinpointing locations inside skyscrapers or in subway tunnels can be difficult even for first responders using mobile devices' location-based functions. Now, officials at the First Responder Network Authority, or FirstNet, are looking at ways to overcome those obstacles.
- FirstNet Releases More Draft RFP Answers2015-07-01
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) today released the third batch of answers to questions concerning the draft request for proposals (RFP) and special notice it released April 27.
June 2015
- Next-gen 911, FirstNet need to interoperate effectively and efficiently, NENA official says2015-06-29
FirstNet representatives have been receptive to the notion that the much-anticipate public-safety broadband network needs to operate cohesively with IP-based next-generation 911 systems, and 911 officials should work to ensure this vision becomes reality, according to a National Emergency Number Association (NENA) official.
- Deployment of Nationwide Public Safety Network to Begin in 20182015-06-18
The deployment of the country’s first nationwide public safety broadband network is expected to begin in 2018, the project's acting director said June 16.
- FirstNet Moving Quickly To Answer 650+ Questions on Special Notice with Draft RFP Documents2015-06-18
On April 27th, FirstNet released its Special Notice with Draft Request for Proposals (RFP) documents and opened up the document for questions and comments, and solicited capabilities statements. FirstNet has made it a matter of policy that engagement with industry, the states and territories, the public safety community, and other market participants is key to the development of the RFP.
- FirstNet finds its footing, officials say 2015-06-17
The First Responder Network Authority, known as FirstNet, continued its march through Congress this week with a stop at a House subcommittee, where officials largely lauded its progress.
- Responses to FirstNet public notice reveal little consensus on ‘public-safety entity’ definition2015-06-16
FirstNet’s public-notice proceeding offering a revised definition of a “public-safety entity” that could qualify for prioritized access on the proposed nationwide public-safety broadband notice did not generate consensus among those responding in the proceeding.
- Uses and ethics of cameras in ambulances2015-06-15
Here are some current and future benefits of audio or video recording of EMS calls, and legal questions your department should ask before installing cameras
- Rural carriers interested in partnering with FirstNet, but urban/suburban opportunities appear limited, CCA’s Berry says2015-06-15
FirstNet offers commercial-carrier partners a significant opportunity in rural America, but public safety’s needs in urban and suburban locations could be so great that there may not be much capacity left for commercial use on a secondary basis, according to a top official for the Competitive Carriers Association (CCA).
- FirstNet Answers First Batch of Questions on Draft RFP2015-06-13
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) today released the first batch of answers to questions it received about the draft request for proposals (RFP) and special notice it released in April 27. The authority said last week that it received 642 questions on the documents.
- House Subcommittee to Hold FirstNet Hearing June 16 2015-06-10
The House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology scheduled a hearing at 2 p.m. June 16 on the progress of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). The Senate held a FirstNet hearing in March.
- The Performance Institute Hosts Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN) Event2015-06-10
DC think tank welcomes FirstNet Director along with Federal, State, and Local officials of the NPSBN community for second of three policy forums.
- FirstNet Searching for Private Sector Partnership 2015-06-08
On May 14, 2015, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) held its first “Industry Day” session since the release of its draft request for proposals (RFP) for a comprehensive network solution to build, deploy and operate a nationwide interoperable broadband network for first responders.
- FirstNet's public-safety-centric mindset 'very different' than typical federal entity, Swenson says2015-06-04
FirstNet may be housed in the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and subject to federal rules, but public-safety users can be assured that FirstNet—and its contracted partners—plan to conduct its operations with the same urgency as first responders, according to FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson.
- FirstNet officials say deployment speed, cost effectiveness key criteria for opt-out states, territories2015-06-03
States and territories can choose to build the public-safety broadband radio access network (RAN) in their jurisdictions, but they will not be able to keep excess revenues and must meet difficult statutory criteria regarding decision-making and speed-of-deployment timelines, FirstNet officials said during committee meetings on Tuesday.
- Wireless carriers may hesitate to partner with FirstNet, analysts say2015-06-01
Despite public-safety officials' praise of commercial wireless options as potential partners for FirstNet, the country's first nationwide broadband first-responder network, analysts believe wireless network providers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint may be hesitant to take on the responsibility.
May 2015
- New technology improves emergency agencies, CMPD’s operations2015-05-29
Lt. Steve Huber said patrolling the streets of Charlotte has gotten exponentially easier for officers in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Polie Department's North Division because new laptops with 4G modems and routers, Lt. Steve Huber said.
- Priority, Pre-emption, and Quality of Service Tutorial: LTE Basic Concepts2015-05-29
FirstNet and the PSCR have coordinated to develop a two-part video tutorial to explain some of the key concepts of this critical NPSBN feature. The first video focuses on the basic Long Term Evolution (LTE) concepts of this feature.
- DHS OEC Report Evaluates Vail Alpine Ski 700 MHz Public-Safety Demo Network2015-05-28
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) released a report that evaluated the 700 MHz band class 14 public-safety Long Term Evolution (LTE) pilot network in Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado, earlier this year.
- NIST develops first 'roadmap' for public safety communications research2015-05-26
The U.S. Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has published the first "roadmap" for the next 20 years of research needed to establish seamless, broadband public safety communications networks across the United States. The new roadmap, the first of a planned series on relevant technologies, focuses on location-based services to improve situational awareness for police, firefighters, emergency medical services and other first responders.
- House subcommittee OKs bill aimed at improving interoperable first responder communications 2015-05-17
A House Homeland Security subcommittee last week unanimously approved bi-partisan legislation aimed at improving interoperable communications for first responders.
- FirstNet sheds light on financial challenges during Industry Day event2015-05-15
FirstNet is seeking partnerships that ensure the nationwide public-safety broadband network is financially sustainable in the long term and provides first responders with “the best price possible” for service, officials said during a meeting yesterday with attendees interested in responding to the FirstNet draft RFP.
- FirstNet Holds Successful First Industry Day2015-05-15
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) today held its first “Industry Day” with interested parties on the Special Notice and draft Request for Proposals (RFP) documents. More than 425 representatives from federal, state, local jurisdictions, associations, and the vendor community participated in person or via webcast.
- Deadline Extended for State Data Collection for FirstNet Planning2015-05-12
Officials are giving states an additional two months for initial data collection sought by the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). The original deadline had been July 31; the new deadline will be Sept. 30. A number of state officials had complained that the earlier deadline would make it difficult for them to collect sufficient data to be considered in FirstNet’s final request for proposals (RFP), which is expected to be released by the end of 2015.
- End of 2016 FirstNet Contracts?2015-05-06
First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) acting Executive Director TJ Kennedy said today that it’s too early to predict whether the authority might be able to award a contract or contracts by the end of next year to deploy a nationwide public safety broadband network.
- Feds approve L.A. County emergency system revisions; work can resume2015-05-01
Federal officials on Friday gave a thumbs up to revisions in a Los Angeles County-wide emergency communications project, lifting an earlier suspension of a $154.6-million construction grant and allowing work to resume immediately
April 2015
- GAO report identifies several FirstNet challenges, ignores multiple key factors2015-04-30
In its latest report, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) does a good job of summarizing most of the business-model challenges facing FirstNet. However, it missed some big factors that could impact FirstNet, including the potential impact that mission-critical voice over LTE could have on public-safety adoption.
- State CIOs Seek Help on Cyber, Answers on FirstNet2015-04-29
State CIOs hope to secure more federal support for cybersecurity efforts, more details about FirstNet and more options for broadband grants as they meet with officials in Washington, D.C., this week.
- FirstNet Board Approves Draft RFP Documents, Third Public Notice with Emphasis on Continued Public Safety Consultation2015-04-24
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board today approved the framework of FirstNet’s proposed acquisition approach to deploy the nationwide public safety broadband network (NPSBN) and authorized the release of a Special Notice requesting feedback on draft Request for Proposals (RFP) documents.
- FirstNet 'State Points of Contact' Hold First Meeting2015-04-21
BLOG REPORT - The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) conducted its first-ever meeting of “state points of contact” or SPOCs (pronounced like “Mr. Spock”) in Reston, Virginia, this past week.
- FirstNet board to consider draft RFP, ‘public-safety-entity’ notice during special meeting on Friday2015-04-21
FirstNet board members will conduct a special teleconference meeting on Friday, when they are expected to consider approving the FirstNet’s much-anticipated draft request for proposal (RFP), according to a FirstNet official. In addition, the board will consider issuing a follow-up public notice to get more input about who should qualify as a “public-safety entity” that can get priority access to FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety broadband network.
- LA County board approves revised LA-RICS public-safety LTE proposal2015-04-15
Los Angeles County board supervisors approve a 63-site “corrective action plan” (CAP) that Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) officials have proposed to revive the suspended public-safety LTE project. LA-RICS has submitted the plan to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for approval.
- Swenson says LA-RICS providing FirstNet with valuable lessons about outreach, infrastructure sharing2015-04-09
As the saga surrounding the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) public-safety LTE deployment unfolds, FirstNet officials are learning a great deal about the importance of outreach and limitations associated with infrastructure sharing, according to FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson.
- April 2015 FirstNet Stakeholder Quarterly Webinar2015-04-06
Last week the FirstNet User Advocacy Team held the second quarterly webinar for our state and territory Single Points of Contact (SPOCs) in 2015.
- FirstNet's Swenson hopes collaboration can transform LA-RICS LTE 'lemons' into 'lemonade'2015-04-06
Officials with FirstNet and the federal government are committed to working with key local representatives to help the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) develop a “viable” alternative for its troubled public-safety LTE system, according to FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson.
March 2015
- FirstNet allows more time for public-notice responses, announces plans for Industry Day series2015-03-26
Stakeholders wanting to give input to FirstNet about its public notice regarding “opt-out” states will have an extra week—until April 20—to submit responses, in accordance with numerous requests made since the proceeding was initiated earlier this month, according to FirstNet officials.
- FirstNet board does not vote on proposed draft RFP, will meet again in the 'very near future'2015-03-25
Expressing a desire to ensure that the draft request for proposal (RFP) “right” before releasing it, FirstNet board members say they will revisit the document during a meeting in the "very near future” to address remaining issues—specifically some financial aspects of the proposed nationwide public-safety broadband network.
- First responders test future public safety net2015-03-24
When a vehicle turned up where it shouldn’t have during a ski competition in Colorado in February, new mobile broadband technology made the difference between a scramble by police to locate the vehicle and a quick, more targeted search from first responders.
- NTIA releases second phase of planning grants as FirstNet identifies data for states to collect2015-03-24
States and territories can use $58 million in planning grants from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to gather data in their jurisdictions regarding their first responders’ needs for coverage, capacity and other key functionalities from FirstNet’s nationwide public-safety broadband network, NTIA and FirstNet announce.
- Firefighters’ union claims of RF dangers jeopardizes LA-RICS public-safety LTE project2015-03-23
Complaints from a firefighters union that radio-frequency (RF) emissions from LTE sites being installed at several Los Angeles-area fire stations are a health hazard could derail the regional public-safety LTE system, according to an official with the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS), which is building the network.
- FirstNet system will support non-mission-critical voice from Day 1, officials say2015-03-19
FirstNet officials yesterday offered insights about progress toward building the much-anticipated nationwide public-safety broadband network, including a commitment that the system will support non-mission critical voice calls from the outset.
- Authorized access to FirstNet communications network, devices is key during development 2015-03-18
A recently released report that lays out 10 principles for a network access and credentialing strategy will be considered by the First Responder Network Authority as it plans development of a nationwide public safety communications network, an official with the group writes in a March 16 blog post.
- Sue Swenson: FirstNet RFP Could Come Later This Year2015-03-13
Sue Swenson, chairwoman of the First Responder Network Authority board, has said a final solicitation for the nationwide FirstNet emergency response service could be ready in the latter part of 2015, Urgent Communications reported Wednesday.
- FirstNet Board Approves Release of Second Public Notice and Seeks Comments2015-03-13
As part of its ongoing efforts to consult with stakeholders, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board today approved for release a second Public Notice (Second Notice) seeking comment on important interpretations of FirstNet’s enabling legislation, including public safety customer, operational, and funding considerations related to states or territories assuming responsibility for radio access network (RAN) deployment.
- IAFC President: FirstNet is Critically Important to Public Safety 2015-03-11
International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President and Chairman of the Board G. Keith Bryant today testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation that FirstNet’s goal of building a nationwide public-safety broadband network to meet first responders’ needs is critically important for public safety.
- Hearing on Public Safety Broadband Network Progress2015-03-11
Representatives of federal agencies and first responder groups testified at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing hearing on progress made toward establishing the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), which aimed to be the first nationwide wireless broadband network for public safety.
- FirstNet’s Swenson to Congress: Final RFP due this year, ‘we should be shot’ if 2022 goal not met2015-03-11
FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson testifies before the Senate Commerce Committee that FirstNet plans to issue its final request for proposal (RFP) by the end of this year and that “we should be shot” if the much-anticipated nationwide broadband network for first responders is not operational by 2022.
- Meet the FirstNet Team: Adding More Talent to the Technical Headquarters in Boulder2015-03-04
The First Responder Network (FirstNet) is adding to its technical management team by hiring a number of professionals from the wireless industry with specialized backgrounds in devices, applications, testing, and network engineering.
- FirstNet meets with tribal representatives as part of effort to build public safety, wireless network 2015-03-04
Early last week, the independent government board tasked with overseeing development of a nationwide, wireless broadband public safety network, met with a half dozen members of tribal organizations, one of the stakeholder groups that's helping develop the communications system.
- FirstNet board to conduct special meeting, Swenson to testify before Congress next week2015-03-03
FirstNet board members will consider issuing a second public notice on key policy questions during a special board meeting on Monday, and FirstNet Chairwoman Sue Swenson is slated to testify next Wednesday as part of the Senate Commerce Committee’s first oversight hearing about the three-year-old organization.
February 2015
- FirstNet to Look at Public Safety Entity Definition in Further Notice2015-02-28
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) plans to issue another public notice further exploring issues related the definition of public safety entity, a FirstNet official said today at the National Emergency Number Association’s 911 Goes to Washington event.
- Atlantic City to lead way with broadband network for public safety2015-02-09
The city is one of three areas in the state to be part of a pilot program by the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness that eventually will have a nationwide broadband system called FirstNet.
- Question of FirstNet funding now moot, thanks to successful FCC spectrum auction 2015-02-04
Far surpassing estimated revenues, the Federal Communications Commission raised a staggering $44.9 billion in a recent wireless spectrum auction with some of the proceeds earmarked for the development of a nationwide, interoperable network for first responders.
- Nationwide broadband network aims to shepherd public safety into the 21st Century2015-02-02
When last week’s nor’easter dumped about two feet of snow and brought hurricane-force winds to the island of Nantucket, the town’s modern day communication systems didn’t stand a chance.
- Nationwide broadband network aims to shepherd public safety into the 21st Century2015-02-02
When last week’s nor’easter dumped about two feet of snow and brought hurricane-force winds to the island of Nantucket, the town’s modern day communication systems didn’t stand a chance. It’s the kind of crisis situation that FirstNet is mandated to address so public safety can respond more effectively in the future.
January 2015
- FirstNet gives responders access to commercial technology2015-01-28
Imagine if a police officer could send the location of a fleeing suspect to other officers while perusing the suspect on foot. Or if medical personnel caring for a patient inside an ambulance could video conference with doctors in the emergency room en route to the hospital?
- Colorado to demo LTE safety network2015-01-28
FirstNet Colorado, along with public safety agencies in Vail and Eagle counties, will demo a dedicated wireless broadband data network for emergency response, giving first responders the chance to use next generation LTE devices that will bring the power of broadband data to local, tribal, state and federal responders.
- FirstNet opens to feds, DHS on board2015-01-22
FirstNet formally initiated a federal consultation process this week with more than a dozen federal departments and agencies to see how they can best take advantage of the nationwide public safety network.
- DHS eyes FirstNet to expand mobile capabilities2015-01-21
Officials at the Department of Homeland Security believe the forthcoming national broadband network for emergencies and public safety could be a way to expand mission capabilities across its component agencies.
- How Local Governments Are Preparing for FirstNet2015-01-19
Local governments update their infrastructure to prepare for the FirstNet public-safety network
- FirstNet to Bring the Power of Advanced Mobile Technologies to Law Enforcement 2015-01-16
Smart mobile technology, constantly driven forward by the marketplace, holds great promise for public safety. This is particularly true in law enforcement where officers spend most of their time in the field on the move in cars, on motorcycles, or on foot. However, public safety needs a modern, wireless, high-speed public safety communications network to support these devices before it can even begin to leverage all of the benefits they offer. That’s where FirstNet comes in.
- Vendor team outlines features of all-deployable public-safety LTE network for state of New Jersey2015-01-12
First responders in three regions of New Jersey later this year are expected to utilize a new dedicated public-safety LTE network comprised entirely of deployable infrastructure operating on 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum licensed to FirstNet, according to officials for the vendors building the network.
- Emergency communications take multipath approach2015-01-12
The Department of Homeland Security recently updated its National Emergency Communications Plan. Over 350 federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners, as well as private sector stakeholders participated in developing the updated NECP – the first update since 2008.
- Dramatic changes in LTE landscape bust myths, provide FirstNet with new options2015-01-08
The commercial wireless industry has experienced a remarkable amount of change in recent years with the deployment of LTE and other technologies, shattering many long-held assumptions about the industry. The impact of these changes seem certain to impact FirstNet officials as key decision are made this year.
- PMC Associates Teams with Oceus Networks and Fujitsu Network Communications to Provide First-Ever Public Safety Grade Mobile 4G LTE Network for the State of New Jersey2015-01-07
PMC Associates, a New Jersey based company specializing in mission-critical radio solutions for first responders, announced today that it has teamed with Oceus Networks and Fujitsu Network Communications to build JerseyNet, a dedicated first responder network for the state of New Jersey
- FirstNet to 911 leaders: Call your SPOC2015-01-06
Public-safety answering point (PSAP) leaders have a role to play in the development of the nationwide public-safety broadband network,FirstNet Outreach Director Amanda Hilliard said in a webinar.
- FirstNet Expected to Improve EMS communications 2015-01-05
The network is expected to provide better information on scene and the ability to provide electronic patient records to hospitals while in transit
December 2014
- Meet the FirstNet Team: Technical Headquarters in Boulder2014-12-11
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is pleased to announce that two top wireless network planning and development experts have joined its Federal technical team in Boulder, Colorado.
- FirstNet Board Makes Major Strides Toward Acquisition Strategy2014-12-10
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board today addressed key findings from the input provided by stakeholders in response to the Request for Information (RFI) and Public Notice that closed in late October.
- Inspector General Report Finds FirstNet Public Disclosure, Contracting Inadequacies2014-12-09
The Department of Commerce Inspector General found that the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) confidential and public disclosure monitoring procedures were inadequate during its start-up years in 2012 and 2013.
- Panelists note public-safety benefits in LTE standard, cite work that needs to be done
2014-12-08
Key first-responder capabilities—noatably, group communications and off-network functionality—are not yet in the LTE standard, and economic pressures could hinder their development, panelists said during a public-safety session at the recent LTE North America conference in Dallas.
- Written Testimony of TJ Kennedy Acting General Manager First Responder Network Authority2014-12-03
Transcript of testimony before the Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications United States House of Representatives Hearing on “Interoperable Communications: Assessing Progress Since 9/11”, November 18, 2014
- Congressional subcommittee pushes for FirstNet timeline, more SWICs2014-12-03
During a U.S. House Homeland Security subcommittee hearing on the progress of interoperable communications since the tragic events of 9/11, members of Congress pressed FirstNet Acting General Manager TJ Kennedy for a projected timeframe regarding the state-consultation process.
- AWS-3 auction bids now top $38.4B, as bidding churns on2014-12-03
Participants in the FCC's AWS-3 spectrum auction resumed bidding after taking a break for the Thanksgiving holiday, and the auction has now topped $38.4 billion in total provisional winning bids.
November 2014
- FirstNet Finance Committee Gives Go-Ahead To Fund Key RFP, Consultation Activities in FY152014-11-17
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Finance Committee today approved Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15) funding guidance... that supports program roadmap activities in the areas of Request for Proposal (RFP) development for the purpose of identifying and negotiating key private-public partnership arrangements; network planning and development; consultation with regional, state, tribal, and local jurisdictions; and organizational operations and infrastructure. The Finance Committee held a special meeting via a public teleconference during which it unanimously approved Resolution 8.
- Differences on ‘public-safety entity’ definition may be addressable by FirstNet2014-11-13
In recent filings with FirstNet regarding the definition of a "public-safety entity" that would be eligible for priority-access consideration, commercial wireless carriers and utilities associations approach the matter very differently, but their final conclusions include a lot of similarities.
October 2014
- FirstNet Completes Successful Request for Information and Public Comment Period2014-10-28
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) has closed the windows for responses to its September 17 Request for Information (RFI) and the comment period for a Public Notice that was published in the Federal Register on September 24. Both the RFI and the Public Notice allowed stakeholders, including public safety professionals, regional, state, tribal and local jurisdictions, and the vendor community, to provide input and ideas on the development of the nationwide public safety broadband network (NPSBN).
- FirstNet RFI and Public Notice Deadlines Extended!2014-10-08
FirstNet announced today they have extended the response deadlines for both documents to 10/27/14. See these links for more information on the Public Notice or RFI extensions.
- NPSTC Publishes Public Safety Broadband Console Requirements2014-10-01
NPSTC’s Public Safety Broadband Console Requirements defines the public safety requirements for consoles connected to the LTE network...