AT&T has invested $575 million in Arizona’s internet infrastructure over the last three years, according to a statement released Tuesday. The massive investment included a wide range of enhancements to wireless and wired internet infrastructure. The services support individuals, business and services that support public safety and first responders. In 2016 alone, AT&T revealed that it made 1,040 wireless network upgrades, including building new cellular sites and adding capacity to existing ones. 

AT&T’s investment has increased reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance across Arizona’s communications network. Specifically, coverage and cellular reliability has been increased in the Phoenix area to prepare for the NCAA Men’s Final Four and the deployment of “Cell on Wheels” to major events to improve connectivity. 

The president of AT&T Arizona, Jerry Fuentes, says the company will continue to invest in Arizona’s infrastructure after House Bill 2365 was signed into law by Governor Doug Ducey in late March. The new legislation will streamline the deployment of 5G communications and removes obstacles for any company wanting to improve wireless communications.

Arizona is the first state to pass legislation to hasten the new 5G technology. Though not yet mainstream, 5G boasts 500 megabytes per second download speeds – lighting fast compared to national average speed of 6.5 megabyte per seconds. AT&T plans to invest tens of millions more dollars over the next few years to improve mobile technology in Arizona and pave the way for 5G to launch in the near future.