News from AT&T…

What’s the news? First responders in Northern Minnesota are getting a major boost in their wireless communications thanks to the FirstNet® network expansion currently underway by AT&T*. We’ve added a new, purpose-built cell site cell site to provide coverage for the Grand Rapids area.

This FirstNet site will provide coverage when traveling along U.S. Highways 2 and 169 in Grand Rapids. This new site is giving first responders on FirstNet – America’s public safety network – access to always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data.

Why is this important? We consider FirstNet the most important wireless network in the country because it’s serving our first responders. And unlike commercial networks, FirstNet provides dedicated mobile broadband. To ensure AT&T and the FirstNet Authority are putting coverage and capacity where first responders need it most, the FirstNet build is being done with direct feedback from state and local public safety officials. This helps ensure Minnesota first responders connect to the critical information they need – every day and in every emergency.

FirstNet sites already launched in communities across Minnesota including Angle Inlet, Bagley, Baudette, Blackduck, Cloquet, Deer River, Ely (Echo Trail, Meander Lake), Ely (Echo Trail, Twin Lakes), Faribault, Finlayson, Gary, Graceville, Grand Marais (Gunflint Trail), Grygla, Hokah, Hovland, Isabella, Kellogg, Lewiston, Orr (Kjostad Lake), Peterson, Tofte (Lichen Lake), Togo and Williams.