FCC: National Wireless Network Is a ‘Go’

If the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has its way, the United States will have a nationwide, interoperable wireless network for its public safety agencies at some time in the future. In statements made today at a Washington (DC) forum, FCC chair Julius Genachowski admitted that creating such a network is a “very difficult and complex issue,” and acknowledged that the Commission’s first effort at a spectrum auction were “not successful.” But he then laid out “the best and shortest path” to implement a wireless network, which includes “significant funding,” in the range of $12 billion to $16 billion over 10 years. “This is important,” Genachowski stressed. “We have gone too long with little progress to show for it,” noting that the private sector would not build such a network “on its own dime.” He said the FCC recommendation is to move forward with the re-auction of the D Block of 700 MHz spectrum, but also allow public safety access to “the entire 700 MHz band through roaming and priority access arrangements” (see related story). Lastly, Genachowski said competition was needed to ensure deployment of the network. So the FCC’s plan will allow public safety to select any commercial operator or systems integrator to partner with. Genachowski’s statements were presented as “working recommendations,” since they haven’t been approved by the full commission or Congress. But it’s believed they do represent what will be final FCC policy. Download (pdf) Genachoski’s remarks, and similar remarks from James Barnett, Jr., chief of the FCC’s Public Safety & Homeland Security Bureau.