AT&T has recently released the details of its $2.8 billion investment from 2014 to 2016 in the Atlanta, Georgia area wireless and wired networks. These investments were designed to enhance reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance for residents and businesses in the area, while improving critical services that support public safety and first responders.
“Our customers are the reason AT&T exists. And, being a part of enhancing and connecting their lives with new technology and services is why we are here, said Bill Leahy, President, AT&T Georgia. “The significant investments AT&T is making in Metro Atlanta allows our thousands of AT&T employees who call this area home to expand our fiber network and bring a host of new, innovative opportunities to keep the community connected, drive economic growth and spur job creation.”
The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) recently chose AT&T to build a nationwide public safety broadband network for police, firefighters, EMS personnel and other first responders.
AT&T and FirstNet reportedly are working closely with Georgia Governor Nathan Deal and public safety stakeholders in Georgia to ensure the network addresses the specific needs of the state's public safety community. The company said that it plans to build on the current and planned investments as states make the decision to participate in the FirstNet network, with a dedicated focus on first responders for the 25-year life of the program.
AT&T is using the Internet of Things (IoT) to help cities gain competitive advantage by harnessing data to predict, learn and make near real-time decisions. The company is working closely with Atlanta on smart city initiatives, including the SmartATL project, which uses the North Avenue corridor bordering the Georgia Tech campus in the business and theater district as a test bed for numerous technologies, including digital infrastructure. With the AT&T Digital Infrastructure solution and Current by GE’s CityIQ sensors, Atlanta is addressing issues like traffic flow, parking optimization and gunshot detection, while creating a platform for citizen engagement.
“For Atlanta to continue to thrive and serve our citizens, it's crucial companies invest through thoughtful innovation,” said Kasim Reed, mayor, Atlanta. “AT&T's continued commitment to Metro Atlanta helps keep us at the forefront of the technology sector. In our increasingly connected world, this type of sustained investment from the private sector is significant and helps ensure our residents, businesses and visitors enjoy the connectivity they need.”
Ken Briodagh is a writer and editor with more than a decade of experience under his belt. He is in love with technology and if he had his druthers would beta test everything from shoe phones to flying cars.
Edited by
Ken Briodagh
