HARRISBURG – State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-Somerset/Bedford) and State Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-Bedford/Cambria/Clearfield) today announced that the cell phone tower in the Hyndman/Londonderry Township area of Bedford County has become operational.
The need for the expansion of cell phone coverage was made abundantly apparent on Aug. 2, 2017, when a train derailment forced the evacuation of the town for several days. Lack of sufficient cell service made it difficult to communicate with residents, delaying evacuations and notifications of the accident.
“After more than three years of working and fighting for this project, I am thrilled to see it finally become operational. Every second lost during an emergency increases the risk to those involved,” said Metzgar. “I am forever thankful for the bravery and selflessness of those who risked their lives that day to keep others safe. With this expanded coverage, we can avoid situations like the one in 2017 and communicate to our citizens quickly and effectively.”
“Through a culmination of efforts among the community, AT&T, FirstNet Authority and many others, today residents of Hyndman/Londonderry Township, Bedford County are hearing their cell phones ring for the first time,” said Langerholc. “I am pleased that our efforts have yielded positive results for our communities.”
The cell tower project was completed in cooperation with FirstNet Authority and AT&T.