AT&T expands mobile broadband to Old Hickory Lake
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100422/HENDERSONVILLE01/100422013/AT-T-expands-mobile-broadband-to-Old-Hickory-Lake

Area boaters can now surf the web, check e-mail, or even put in a days work – all while afloat Old Hickory Lake.

Officials with AT&T announced April 19 they have expanded 3G-cell site coverage near Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville.

“This new 3G-cell site is located near Sanders Ferry Road and will provide coverage to the peninsula south of Hendersonville and to those who enjoy boating and recreation on Old Hickory Lake,” said Cathy Lewandowski, an AT&T spokesperson.

One of the advantages of a 3G network is that it allows broadband providers to offer customers a wider range of data and voice service at higher speeds, Lewandowski said. 
Eric Jackson, owner of Keystone Business Solutions in Hendersonville, said he believes advances like this can help the local area.

“More high-speed wireless coverage is always a great thing for growth,” Jackson said. “Companies looking to relocate always review the availability of high-speed bandwidth, whether it’s wireless or wired. You almost can’t do business without it anymore.”

Although there are some cellular providers in that immediate area, much of the coverage thus far has been spotty, he said.

“I think AT&T is simply trying to get those areas covered where people are enjoying themselves as well as working,” Jackson said.

Local boaters say having Internet access offshore could be very valuable.

“For a lot of people already on the lake, it would be a good way for them to check the weather,” said P.J. Park of Hendersonville.

“I have two kids taking summer classes at Vol State, and if they want to go out on the boat and they need to access the Internet, that would be good,” said Janet Puhl of Hendersonville, adding her husband could also access work files if necessary. “In this economy, it’s really important that you can be accessible in business.”

But not everyone plans to use the broadband access on the lake.

“I view my computer as a business tool,” Greg Elrod of Hendersonville said. “When I'm on the lake, that is family and personal time. I choose to escape any type of work when I'm on the lake.”

Legislators support efforts

Local lawmakers also say the broadband expansion can benefit the Hendersonville area, which continues to grow, both residentially and commercially.

“High-speed broadband wireless connections are critical to our efforts to grow the economy,” State Rep. Debra Maggart said in a press release. “This technology provides us with the tools to attract more and better jobs.”

“Continued expansion of our telecommunications infrastructure is necessary for the ongoing economic development of our community,” State Sen. Diane Black said in a press release. “Better connectivity means better service for businesses and consumers alike.”