AT&T touts benefits of $18.2 billion investment in Georgia

ALBANY – AT&T’s $18.2 billion investment in Georgia is enhancing the features and services the company will be able to provide in the future, including expanded access to fiber, building tomorrow’s networks and boosting 5G coverage.

The company’s FirstNet also is connecting first responders in nearly 640 communities and rolled out Band 14 to more than 2,400 sites across the state, providing public safety organizations with a dedicated network for emergency response.

“Georgia is proud to be the No. 1 state for business, and continued investments like this from partners like AT&T help us keep that coveted ranking,” Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said of the enhancements. “This latest contribution will further strengthen our communities by supporting economic development and public safety, as well as expanding opportunity in rural parts of our state. I’m grateful to AT&T for helping even more Georgians prosper.”

The expansion in the state includes expanding fiber coverage to more than 7.5 million strand miles, making it available to more than 2 million customer locations in more than 155 Georgia communities.

AT&T is also ramping up performance of its 5G network in high-traffic areas like airports, stadiums and venues, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena and Truist Park. In addition, 5G is being expanded across the state in communities including Dalton, Evans, LaGrange, Rincon, Toccoa and Thomasville to increase access.

Another initiative is working with AST SpaceMobile to offer a full suite of broadband connectivity; voice, data and test in remote, off-grid locations, and a satellite that may in time support video services.

The company also has launched AT&T Internet Air, a fixed wireless home internet service delivered over the 5G network, providing an all-in-one device that powers strong Wi-Fi coverage to homes and businesses.

“Georgia’s strong, pro-business environment continues to create opportunities for meaningful investment and innovation,” Riley Blount, president of AT&T Georgia, said. “At AT&T, we are proud to provide the modern communications networks that connect communities, support economic growth and help businesses of all sizes thrive.

“Our investment also strengthens the critical infrastructure first responders rely on every day to keep Georgians safe. We are proud to invest in Georgia and work alongside leaders across the state to support continued growth and success.”