FirstNet Makes Progress, But Cost and Quality Concerns Remain

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is moving fast toward its goal of a dedicated nationwide public safety communications network.

On May 13, the federal agency published an updated map that gives an overview of the states’ progress in preparing for the network, which is expected to launch within the next couple of years. Every state but Mississippi has met with FirstNet for an initial consultation, and all but New Jersey and Mississippi are included in FirstNet’s data collection process. FirstNet’s current phase is to consult with the states’ governance bodies, and 12 states have completed this phase. These meetings are centered around FirstNet’s goal of awarding and approving a 25-year vendor contract for the network by this November, after having only issued the RFP in January. FirstNet wants states to get all stakeholders aligned so they’re ready to approve individual state plans when they go out, said Dave Buchanan, the authority's director of consultation. FirstNet is doing as much planning as possible now so there are no unpleasant surprises later when states will have limited time — just some months — to approve FirstNet’s plans, he explained.