FirstNet Authority Board Approves Investment for Network Evolution

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) is evolving and expanding FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network, through strategic network investments. At a special Board meeting, the FirstNet Authority Board took action to increase coverage on the network and accelerate FirstNet’s transition to a full 5G network. This network investment follows completion of the five-year initial buildout by the FirstNet Authority’s network contractor, AT&T. FirstNet now serves 27,500 public safety agencies, with over 5.5 million connections. The FirstNet Authority Board advanced the investment by approving Resolution 117. The resolution directs FirstNet Authority management to take all necessary actions to enable FirstNet’s evolution for network subscribers. The Board also increased the FirstNet Authority’s investment budget for Fiscal Year 2024 to $547 million.