The plan requires Nextel Communications Inc. to give up rights to some of its licenses in the 800 MHz band and all of its licenses in the 700 MHz band. This will free up space for public radio systems and eliminate interference.
In exchange, the FCC will modify Nextel's licenses allowing Nextel to operate in certain areas of the 1900MHz band.
"For more than five years, public safety professionals have been struggling with unreliable and unclear communications, which has jeopardized lives and the citizens they protect," said Chief Ernest Mitchell, president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. "We applaud the FCC for its leadership and decision in support of the public safety community."
This solution was recommended by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Sheriff's Association (NSA) and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO).
Further information on the FCC's proposed deal with Nextel is available online.
