EAGLE LAKE — Today, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, announced the approval of a new cell phone tower in Eagle Lake. The new tower will improve cell phone service for residents and help first responders respond to emergencies in the area.
“For years, I’ve been working to improve cell service in the Valley so folks can connect with loved ones, work remotely, conduct business and most importantly, call for help when they need it most. I’m thrilled we were able to strike a deal to construct a new cell phone tower for the residents and first responders of Eagle Lake,” said President Jackson. “Make no mistake, this is what happens when a community comes together and advocates for what they deserve. Thank you to everyone who worked with me to make this project a reality.”
The announcement marks the third commitment for a new cell phone tower in the St. John Valley. President Jackson secured the construction of cell towers in St. Francis and Allagash earlier this year.
“When incidents happen it is difficult to communicate with ambulance crews, and other first responders because there is no cell service or radio communication. This tower would be a godsend, and would take care of many of these issues,” said Robert St. Germain, Chief of Eagle Lake Fire and Rescue. “I’m just grateful for Senator Jackson’s commitment to making this happen. There is no doubt that the cell phone coverage alone could help save a life of a person involved in a snowmobile accident or someone hitting a moose or deer on Aroostook Road where there is currently no coverage.”
The tower will be constructed by Wireless Partners, LLC. Wireless Partners is a 4G/5G network builder and operator that major carriers rely to deliver their services to subscribers in rural America. The network will be operated by AT&T and supported by FirstNet Authority.
The First Responder Network Authority, or the FirstNet Authority, is an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that oversees FirstNet, the nation’s communications network dedicated to emergency responders and the public safety community.
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