Arizona Says ‘Yes’ to FirstNet

By the Editors of AGL

August 15, 2017

The State of Arizona became the 13th state or territory to opt in into FirstNet. Arizona led a comprehensive solicitation of potential vendors to build and maintain its FirstNet network. Ultimately, Arizona selected the FirstNet and AT&T public-private partnership.

“The State of Arizona is ready to work shoulder-to-shoulder with AT&T and FirstNet to finally deploy a true interoperable nationwide communications system for public safety. We have much work ahead of us, but with AT&T’s open communication and commitment to excellence, the future for all first responders will be safer as will the lives of our citizens,” said Col. Frank Milstead, Director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

The FirstNet solution that will be built in Arizona was designed with direct input from the state’s public safety community. FirstNet has been meeting with Arizona’s elected officials and public safety community for several years to address their unique communications needs.

“This decision comes after the state considered several options to get the best solution for its public safety community,” says FirstNet CEO Mike Poth, who began his law enforcement career with the Tempe Police Department. “FirstNet and AT&T are pleased to have been selected for having the best network solution for the state, and we are honored to serve Arizona’s first responders.”

Preemption for primary users over the AT&T LTE network is expected by year-end. This means fire, police, EMS and other public safety workers will have dedicated access to the network whenever where they need it.

“After thoughtful analysis that included issuing an RFP, Arizona concluded that opting in provided the best solution for their first responders. We couldn’t be more pleased about that,” said Chris Sambar, senior vice president, AT&T – FirstNet. “We take our public safety mission very seriously, and we’re honored to deliver first responders access to the cutting-edge tools and technologies that will help them better serve the people of Arizona.”