Bernie city officials celebrate new cell phone tower

City officials, state legislators and residents of Bernie gathered Tuesday morning at City Hall to celebrate the opening of a new AT&T cell phone tower at the west end of Allis Street. Marsha Haskell, regional director of external affairs for AT&T-Missouri, said the new tower will provide better wireless coverage and call quality in the community. The tower will provide coverage from Dexter to Bernie along the Highway 25 corridor.

The new tower in Bernie is one of about 55 new cell sites to be constructed by AT&T in Missouri in 2009, Haskell said. From 2006 through 2008, AT&T's total investment in Missouri has exceeded $1.75 billion, Haskell reported.

Joyce Overby, a Bernie resident, said she was "thrilled" about the new tower. She said she lived near the tower and for the first time ever she has good cell phone service. She prior to the construction of the new tower she had to drive to a "certain location" to use her cell phone.

"We are committed to providing Missouri excellent communications services," said Nancy Garvey in a press release. Garvey is an AT&T vice president and general manager of the Greater Midwest Region for mobility and consumer markets. She went on to state in the release, "We are keeping that commitment by adding new wireless coverage, ensuring high levels of reliability and offering products to help our customers stay connected wherever they live or work."

Haskell praised the local legislators who she said make it possible for companies like AT&T to invest in Missouri. She told those present that Sen. Rob Mayer has worked in Jefferson City to make it possible for AT&T to provide improved services to rural areas like Bernie. She said all the legislators have worked to encourage investment in wireless technology.

Mayor James Tilmon thanked AT&T for investing in the Bernie community and providing quality wireless coverage to residents. He also thanked the legislators for their work at the State Capitol for making it attractive for companies to invest in areas like Bernie.

"We are fortunate to have leaders like State Senator Rob Mayer, who set good public policy that encourages new technology and innovation throughout Missouri," Tilmon said. "He and his colleagues have paved the way for this investment, and as a result of their leadership the lives of everyday individuals and families will be enhanced and our businesses will stay competitive."

Mayer stated, "Technology and communications have a tremendous impact on the economy, education and the way people go about their daily lives. I have worked to help bring new technology to our community, and it's good to see this important step taking place."