The Public Safety Broadband Network Commission will recommend to Governor Phil Scott that Vermont opt-in to the federal FirstNet plan to deliver a wireless broadband network to the state's public safety community. Today's recommendation culminates a more than year-long evaluation effort by the Governor-appointed commission to evaluate the best option for the build-out of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network in Vermont.
"The commission's focus has remained on ensuring the best service and coverage for our public safety community," said commission Chair Terry LaValley. "Creation of this network was one of the final recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission. The establishment of a single, interoperable network for public safety nationwide means Vermont's first responders will have access to a reliable, highly secure and technologically robust cellular network. The commission believes taking full advantage of the federal solution, rather than partnering to build our own network, will best serve the long-term needs of Vermont public safety."