EWA Endorses 4.9 GHz Waiver Request

March 17, 2026

The Enterprise Wireless Alliance filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) supporting a waiver request from the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) to continue deployment of its 4.9 GHz Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) system. Specifically, BART seeks relief from the 4.9 GHz application filing freeze so that it may complete system enhancements for which it has invested over $1 billion to date including adding 1,500 additional fixed sites located within 2 kilometers of its existing CBTC network.

In its filing, EWA noted that BART’s request meets the FCC’s waiver criteria, makes intensive and efficient public safety use of the 4.9 GHz band, and is consistent with the band management framework that protects incumbent public safety operations. Allowing BART to retain its geographic authorization will reduce the regulatory burden and protect a major, long‑term operational and public safety infrastructure investment.

About the Enterprise Wireless Alliance

EWA is an FCC-certified frequency advisory committee that provides license preparation, spectrum management and associated services to business enterprises, private carriers, public safety entities and wireless sales and service organizations. Membership within EWA is open to users of wireless communications systems, vendors, system operators and service organizations. Additional information about membership and services is available at www.enterprisewireless.org.

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