DC opts in to broadband network for first responders just before deadline

Just before the end of 2017, D.C. opted in to a nationwide network for first responders.

The District’s decision to join FirstNet came a day before a deadline to join the dedicated broadband network, which will be used by police, fire and EMS. Through a public-private partnership, AT&T is building the network throughout the country.

“By opting-in, we are doing our job to make sure the brave men and women who protect the Nation’s Capital have the mission-critical broadband capabilities needed to communicate effectively and in real-time,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a statement.

The network is designed to provide a reliable and secure communications channel for public safety matters. D.C. officials said they specifically wanted the capacity to maintain the network amidst the large number of federal users in the area, as well as enhancing communication across the region.

D.C. joins all 50 states and two territories in membership of the network, according to AT&T. Maryland agreed to opt-in in September, while Virginia announced its decision in July.

AT&T said it will spend nearly $40 billion in all on the network, and expects to get the official green light in early 2018. Along with increasing connectivity and security, FirstNet is also planning to launch public safety apps.