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| Governor Ned Lamont, joined by Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph J. Giulietti and AT&T Connecticut President John Emra. [Download in high quality] |
(NEW HAVEN, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today said that improving access to ultra-fast internet networks for commuters using Connecticut’s public transit system needs to be included in any legitimate plan that is designed to improve the state’s infrastructure, and that is why his multi-modal, ten-year CT2030 transportation plan includes partnering with the state’s major telecommunications companies to implement faster data signals along the New Haven Line – the busiest commuter rail line in the United States.
Joined by representatives of AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile at a news conference this morning at Union Station in New Haven to discuss the proposal, Governor Lamont explained that this public-private partnership will allow these companies to focus on doing what they do best while creating cost-efficiencies for taxpayers. The carriers said they support the approach of expanding ultra-fast internet access on the New Haven Line and are ready to begin implementing it.
CT2030 calls for the purchase of 132 new rail cars designed in partnership with industry experts and equipped with rooftop antennas that enhance cellular connectivity by amplifying 4G and 5G signals throughout the cars.
“Here in Connecticut, we are thinking about infrastructure differently than other states, and that includes access to high-speed – and eventually ultra-speed – internet networks,” said Governor Lamont. “By partnering with telecommunications companies, we can expand internet access to more residents, including while they are commuting on our rail lines. Families will be able to connect with each other more reliably on the train ride to and from work, meaning mom and dad can have a video chat with their kids and the signal won’t stop due to poor coverage. These kinds of investments will boost productivity and significantly contribute to Connecticut’s already high quality of life, all while making the state more attractive to future employers. This is another example of a public-private partnership we were able to create that will benefit our residents while doing so in a cost-effective manner.”
The vision to expand reliable internet access for commuters on the New Haven Line is consistent with Governor Lamont’s vision to accelerate the deployment of the ultra-fast technology throughout the state. Earlier this year, Governor Lamont successfully lobbied the Connecticut General Assembly to adopt legislation that he signed into law this summer, which sets up a process to set 5G infrastructure on state property and establishes a method for municipalities that are interested in taking advantage of the technology in cases where utility or light poles are not available.
“There is a direct connection between the ability of nearly every sector of our economy to conduct business and their ability to connect to high-speed networks,” said Governor Lamont. “I want Connecticut to be ahead of the curve, and to do that we are moving quickly toward making these upgrades across our state.”
“CT2030 envisions a rail service that is faster, more frequent, and more reliable,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph J. Giulietti. “Our plan includes the purchase of 132 rail cars and 30 locomotives that will be critical to making Governor Lamont’s vision a reality. We have begun listening to our customers and rail advocates to understand what they would like: more comfort, work tables, better lighting, charging for mobile devices, and enhanced connectivity – and we plan to deliver.”
“The Governor’s vision for a modern, connected and cutting-edge Connecticut is taking a large step forward for the state and the hundreds of thousands who use the system every day,” said John Emra, President of AT&T Connecticut. “AT&T’s network enhancements along the Metro North rail line will greatly benefit commuters today and also lay the foundation for the next generation of technology. We thank Governor Lamont and his team for their collaboration and dedication to making our state a leader in wireless technology.”
“We’re appreciative that Governor Lamont and his administration are open to working with the industry on ways to improve connectivity for consumers and businesses in Connecticut,” said Anthony A. Lewis, Region Vice President of State Public Policy and Government Affairs for Verizon. “These actions send the message that Connecticut is open for investment in next-generation technology. Verizon is leading the industry in building and deploying our 5G network around the nation that will pave the way for enhanced economic opportunities, cutting-edge technologies and new innovations.”
“T-Mobile supports Governor Lamont’s vision for enhanced mobile coverage and we’re committed to deploying a nationwide 5G network to fuel competition and economic growth across Connecticut,” said Kathleen Ham, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for T-Mobile.
The full CT2030 plan can be read online by visiting CT2030.com.