Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Plattsburgh) announced that he has been appointed to the new Upstate Cellular Coverage Task Force, which will identify solutions to cellular service gaps in upstate communities. The task force, consisting of industry experts, government officials and community leaders, held its first meeting today.

“The lack of widespread cell service has been a longstanding problem for North Country communities,” Jones said. “Cellphones are no longer a luxury, but a necessity for not only our safety, but the success of area businesses. I look forward to working with my fellow representatives and officials, as well as upstate community leaders, so we can finally tackle this issue that’s persisted for far too long.”

The task force will make recommendations on how to close the gaps in cellular coverage in upstate areas, such as the Adirondacks and Catskills, by examining available resources and funding sources, including federal support, existing policies and possible constraints. Additionally, Jones is continuing to push to expand access to high-speed internet to the North Country. “It’s time that New York invests in the infrastructure needed to bring every part of the state into the 21st century to increase safety, level the playing field for businesses and grow the economy,” Jones noted.