LTE  |  2022-04-04

FirstNet, Built with AT&T is Connecting More First Responders Across Illinois

Source: FirstNet
Curated by: Gert Jan Wolf - Editor-in Chief for The Critical Communications Review

AT&T, America’s public safety communications partner now brings more coverage, boost capacity and drive new capabilities for Illinois first responders and the communities they serve – rural and urban.

Today, AT&T covers the entire state with FirstNet, helping to connect public safety agencies and organizations in more than 340 communities across Illinois. AT&T rolled out Band 14 across Illinois to provide public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it. Areas currently benefitting from Band 14 include Adams County, Alton, Aurora, Bloomington-Normal, Bureau County, Champaign-Urbana, Chicago, Clay County, Decatur, Elgin, Granite City, Jo Daviess County, Joliet, Kankakee, Mason County, Mercer County, Montgomery County, Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, Vermilion County and Washington County.

John W. Madden, Chief of Police, Village of Burr Ridge:

Whether it's this growth of the network or the continuous updates to its resources and tools, FirstNet is always innovating on behalf of law enforcement and the communities we serve. And they're helping first responders all over Illinois with not just everyday response, but emergency missions, as well.

And more Illinois first responders are gaining access to a one-of-a-kind 5G experience on FirstNet. Public safety also has access to 5G+ (mmWave) spectrum in Chicago at the United Center, O'Hare Airport and Midway Airport. And we're continuing to roll out additional 5G connectivity for FirstNet in more communities nationwide.

22 counties are currently benefitting from this new infrastructure, which will help improve the overall coverage and network capacity experience for public safety on FirstNet and AT&T wireless customers in the area. 

Eileen Mitchell, President, AT&T Illinois:

FirstNet, Built with AT&T gives first responders the cutting-edge tools they need to safely and effectively achieve their mission. The FirstNet network built specifically for public safety helps first responders in Illinois and across the country do their jobs safely and effectively.