AT&T customers and FirstNet subscribers in Cherokee got a big boost in wireless connectivity. We’ve added a new cell tower to enhance the area’s 4G LTE coverage and help give residents and first responders faster, more reliable wireless service. Our investment will help customers get the most out of their mobile devices.
The new site will provide coverage further east on US Route 19 near Long Branch Road. Visitors will enjoy a better experience as they travel along US19 and businesses in the area will enjoy better coverage.
“For folks living and working in small towns and rural communities, the availability of advanced wireless services is perhaps even more important than for their friends and neighbors in cities,” said State Senator Kevin Corbin. “I am pleased to see this type of private investment in in all corners of the state. This is why I am determined to keep North Carolina a place which welcomes private investment in 21st Century technology.”
“We consistently work to provide better coverage for the community and its first responders.”
Kathleen Evans — External Affairs Regional Director, AT&T North Carolina
“We want our customers to have a great experience. With 4G LTE service, they’ll be able to experience better network connectivity while streaming videos, sharing on social media or texting family and friends,” said Kathleen Evans, regional director of external affairs for AT&T North Carolina. “We consistently work to provide better coverage for the community and its first responders. And we’re investing in our wireless network to accomplish that.”
We know how important it is for our customers to stay connected. That’s why we’re also boosting network reliability and capacity as we expand our network. This helps North Carolina residents get the best possible experience over the AT&T network wherever they live, work and play.
These upgrades will also benefit public safety and first responders on FirstNet – public safety’s dedicated communications platform and give North Carolina’s first responders access to always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data. FirstNet is bringing public safety communications into the 21st century with new, innovative capabilities to help those users stay safe and save lives.
These enhancements also bring Band 14 spectrum to the area. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. 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. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.
FirstNet is built with AT&T in a public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority. It’s designed to help first responders in North Carolina and across the country connect to the critical information they need – when they need it – so they can keep themselves and the communities they serve safer.
