FirstNet cell towers being built in Essex, Clinton counties

ELIZABETHTOWN | Some of the dozens of new cell phone towers going up in this region are connected to the FirstNet network, a federally funded communications infrastructure project being built out by AT&T. Adirondack Park Agency (APA) tower permit records logged in some 40 new AT&T project applications in the past three years. Not all towers are specific to FirstNet infrastructure, which dedicates cell phone capacity for first response agencies. The expansion suggests a significant investment in the region. AT&T said they've invested $1.6 billion throughout New York State. But FirstNet offers a unique asset to North Country emergency services personnel, according to Ben Roberts, a spokesman for AT&T. "The system is made for preemption. It was designed by and for first responders," Roberts explained. "We're actively extending the reach of FirstNet to give agencies, large and small, reliable connectivity and modern communications tools." The bandwidth is designated. FirstNet equipment uses Band 14 spectrum as well as AT&T commercial spectrum. "Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government via the FirstNet Authority," Roberts said. "We look at Band 14 as public safety's VIP lane. In an emergency, this band – or lane – can be cleared and locked just for FirstNet subscribers." The new infrastructure improves the overall coverage experience for AT&T wireless customers in Clinton and Essex Counties as well, he said. "Residents, visitors and businesses can take advantage of the AT&T spectrum bands, as well as Band 14, when capacity is available." What is FirstNet? It is the FirstNet Authority, a nationwide, high-speed broadband platform purpose-built for America's first responders and the extended public safety community, Roberts explained. "The design was developed following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and it is built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority – an independent agency within the federal government." FirstNet cellular services would complement, not replace, the radio communications built over the past decade in Essex and Clinton counties. The phone system uses an integrated SIM card specific to fire, police and emergency response users. And public use can be shut down on Band 14 in the event of a major emergency. Construction of system components is ongoing. The first tower built in Clinton County was for the hamlets of Cadyville and Elsinore; Route 374 between Dannemora and Cadyville; and Route 3, Roberts said. AT&T has built more than five new cell sites in Clinton County since 2020. AT&T has launched more than 10 new FirstNet cell sites in Essex County in the same time frame. "The new FirstNet cell sites in Essex County service the Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87) through the Chesterfield area south of Exit 33, Route 9 and the Butternut Pond; U.S. Route 9 through Lewis, Elizabethtown and Keene Valley; Minerva, Newcomb and North Hudson; State Route 28N through the Newcomb area of the Adirondack Park and Harris Lake area. Roberts said the FirstNet build is being done with direct feedback from state public safety officials. In Essex County, Emergency Services Director Max Thwaits III said they haven't had a lot of experience yet with FirstNet. "We look forward to seeing their capabilities. And if it's beneficial to the county, then implement it. If it's a tool that we can use, then we'd certainly use it." Amy Kramer, president of AT&T New York, said first responders deserve reliable coverage everywhere in New York State. "We have a responsibility unlike any other network provider, and couldn't be more pleased to support the public safety mission by bringing Clinton and Essex counties' first responders – and residents – greater access to the connectivity they need." More information about FirstNet service via AT&T is available online: FirstNet.com Part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the FirstNet Authority was established in 2012 to ensure the building, deployment, and operation of the nationwide, broadband network that equips first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities. Find out more about the authority online: firstnet.gov.

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FirstNet cell towers being built in Essex, Clinton counties

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