Residents in parts of Moore County should have improved access to wireless service beginning Thursday through a new roaming agreement.
The agreement expands AT&T coverage into areas of Moore County where the company previously did not provide service. The expanded coverage also applies to FirstNet subscribers, including first responders who rely on the network during emergencies.
The change comes as residents, businesses, and visitors continue to report areas with weak signals and unreliable service across the county.
Reliable cell service is particularly important for emergency personnel, who need to maintain communication while responding to calls and working in areas where coverage has been limited.
“Folks in Moore County have been asking for better cell service, and I’m glad we’re continuing to see progress,” U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., said. “This new coverage will help families, businesses, and especially our first responders stay connected when it matters most.”
The coverage expansion follows a meeting last month between Hudson and AT&T officials in Moore County, where they discussed areas experiencing connectivity problems and ways to improve service.
The effort is part of broader work involving multiple wireless providers. In July, Verizon officials visited Moore County to see areas with poor coverage firsthand, including a small cell site in Aberdeen and a cell tower near Moore County Airport.
Hudson has also previously met with Verizon officials about coverage problems in Moore County and has continued discussions with AT&T, Verizon, and other providers about improving wireless service throughout the county. He has worked with Southern Pines Mayor Taylor Clement to identify specific problem areas, including neighborhoods, major roads, local businesses, and areas near the Moore County Airport.
Verizon activated the tower near the airport in August, improving service for customers in the surrounding area.
The AT&T coverage expansion took effect Sept. 10.
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Stock image via Canva.
