FirstNet is a high-speed broadband communications platform designed to solve long-standing communications challenges among first responders and the extended public safety community.
The NYPA's goal with the pilot project is to build a secure and reliable LTE network and thereby strengthen its readiness, operational and programmatic capabilities to best serve New York state. NYPA is evaluating the FirstNet platform's ability to meet this goal.
"By taking initiative in modernizing our emergency response systems, New York is leading the way in innovation by taking advantage of new and existing technologies like FirstNet," Hochul said in the press release.
FirstNet is the only nationwide program of its kind that is dedicated to the U.S.'s first responders and public safety community.
Assemblymember Michael Cusick, who is chair of the state assembly's Committee on Energy, emphasized the importance of reliable communication platforms for first responders.
"As we work to upgrade our grid it is crucial that we ensure that we have the most reliable and dependable energy and communications infrastructure for our first responders. We rely heavily on our first responders in emergencies large and small and we have a responsibility to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to do their jobs efficiently and effectively," he said.
"The FirstNet pilot project will serve as a model for our state and for the entire country in how to ensure dependable communication infrastructure for our first responders," Cusick added.
NYPA's LTE wireless network pilot program is meant to complement several key NYPA initiatives, including its robust communication backbone and sensor deployment programs. The program also advances NYPA's end-to-end digitization goal, which is a core component of the agency's clean energy focuses VISION2030 Plan.
"This pilot program will help ensure that our electric systems are ready to meet tomorrow's energy reliability challenges. I am proud of this new partnership, as we develop a new and modern emergency response system," the governor added.
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