Representatives from the First Responder Network Authority – FirstNet — will be in Sacramento beginning today as a part of a three-day meeting to communicate the latest information on development of the U.S. public safety broadband network.
The federal government has secured a 20 MHz block in the 700 MHz band, as well as $7 billion and future proceeds from a series of FCC spectrum auctions, to help build out the network, which first responders say, if done right, will help shorten response times, improve interoperability and help public safety users avoid congestion on commercial networks during emergencies.
FirstNet is the independent government authority spearheading the federal government’s plan to launch a nationwide public safety communications network. Its mission was authorized in congressional legislation signed into law in 2012.
This week’s meeting is FirstNet’s initial state consultation with California. FirstNet began meeting with each state, territory and tribe in early 2014 and is scheduled to conclude with Alaska in September.
According to a statement provided by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), FirstNet "will engage with the California public safety community to understand our first responders’ coverage needs and objectives for California’s portion of the national public safety broadband network. Speakers representing the federal, state and local levels will be on hand to discuss the unique challenges and needs of public safety stakeholders in California. "
The conference, at the Hilton, is closed.
“At this time the conference is filled due to the overwhelming interest and closed to any additional attendees,” Cal OES said.
The California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is the lead for California’s FirstNet work. Karen Wong, assistant director of public safety communications, is California’s single point of contact for FirstNet.
Last year Cal OES hosted seven town hall meetings across the state to discuss FirstNet and California’s specific needs and requirements.
