FirstNet is transforming communications for first responders in Alamance County, North Carolina

August 8, 2025

Key points

• With more than 770 localities in North Carolina where first responders and public safety agencies rely on FirstNet, the service is critical to public safety across the state.
• FirstNet enables public safety subscribers to communicate with one another easily and quickly during everyday situations, big events and emergencies.
• Unique in the industry, the Satellite Cell on Light Truck (COLT) and a Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD) are portable cell sites that are a part of a nationwide fleet of over 180 deployable network assets, which are exclusively available to support public safety on FirstNet at no cost.

AT&T*, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) joined local first responders, public safety officials and community leaders in Alamance County to highlight how FirstNet® Built with AT&T – the only network built with and for America’s first responders – is delivering unparalleled coverage, security and reliable connectivity to the nation’s public safety community. 

U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) and Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Technology Arielle Roth joined representatives from the Alamance County Office of Emergency Management, North Carolina 911 Board, Alamance County Chamber of Commerce, NTIA, FirstNet Authority and AT&T to celebrate wireless infrastructure upgrades on cell sites throughout Alamance County. 

Reliable communications during emergencies

“FirstNet has been a lifeline during floods and hurricanes,” said Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chair, Communications and Technology Subcommittee, U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee. “I appreciate AT&T’s partnership in expanding coverage, especially in rural areas where it can mean the difference between life and death.”

“I am thrilled to join Representative Hudson and public safety leaders to celebrate these impactful upgrades to North Carolina's public safety infrastructure,” said Arielle Roth, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator. “The needs of our first responders – here and across the country – will guide NTIA's efforts to strengthen FirstNet and ensure that it delivers on its statutory mission.”

“Whether it’s a severe storm or a public safety incident, reliable communications are essential in how we respond to emergency situations. This enhanced connectivity will ensure our first responders can coordinate efficiently and effectively to keep our communities safe,” said Chris Saul, Director, Alamance County Office of Emergency Management. “We appreciate AT&T’s investment in Alamance County and for investing in the 21st century public safety technology that strengthens our ability to protect and save lives.”

Enhancements to cell sites

These enhancements to the cell sites also support first responders and the extended public safety community on FirstNet, Built with AT&T – America’s public safety network. The enhancements include Band 14 spectrum, which is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet. We look at Band 14 as public safety’s VIP lane, delivering dedicated connectivity when needed. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity.

FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. FirstNet enables public safety subscribers to communicate with one another easily and quickly during everyday situations, big events and emergencies. It is providing first responders with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits such as always-on priority and preemption, and nationwide, high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, law enforcement and other public safety entities save lives and protect their communities.

A public-private partnership 

FirstNet was shaped by the vision of Congress and the first responder community following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. AT&T launched the FirstNet network through a public-private partnership with the FirstNet Authority – an independent authority within the federal government. As public safety’s partner helping deliver FirstNet, AT&T has a federal mandate to expand and evolve the network, so public safety stays at the forefront of innovative, lifesaving technologies. 

“FirstNet is built by public safety and for public safety. The FirstNet Authority is dedicated to expanding the network based on public safety’s evolving needs and operations,” said Chief Trisha Wolford, Board Member, FirstNet Authority and Fire Chief for Anne Arundel County Fire Department. “We are delivering on that promise for first responders in Alamance County. These sites will enhance coverage and help public safety better serve their community.” 

Deployable network assets 

During the event, attendees had a first-hand look at a Satellite Cell on Light Truck (COLT) and a Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD) from the dedicated FirstNet fleet. Unique in the industry, these portable cell sites are a part of a nationwide fleet of over 180 deployable network assets, which are exclusively available to support public safety on FirstNet at no cost. The FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG) – led by a team of former first responders – guides the deployment of the FirstNet fleet. So far this year, ROG triaged and deployed more than 1,370 solutions, helping ensure public safety officials remain connected to the critical information they need. Agencies can also purchase, own and operate their own FirstNet deployables to help boost coverage around planned or emergency events. 

“At AT&T, we are proud to invest in modern communications infrastructure in Alamance County to provide first responders with the modern tools and reliable connectivity they need to stay safe and connected,” said Trey Rabon, President, AT&T North Carolina. “These new wireless infrastructure upgrades in Alamance County demonstrate our continued commitment to expanding coverage, reliability and innovation for first responders across the state.” 

With more than 770 localities in North Carolina where first responders and public safety agencies rely on FirstNet, the service is critical to public safety across the state. Significant investments have also recently been made in North Carolina to improve and enhance connectivity for first responders subscribed to FirstNet. Today, nearly 2,000 wireless sites across the state have Band 14 spectrum. When not in use by FirstNet subscribers, AT&T wireless customers can enjoy Band 14’s added coverage and capacity. 

Learn more about how AT&T is supporting North Carolina. Learn more about the value of FirstNet is bringing to public safety. Individual first responders can also subscribe to FirstNet online or at their local AT&T store. 

*About AT&T 

We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.