Feb 1, 2005 12:00 PM

The FCC has launched a Web site — www.800mhz.gov — dedicated to keeping 800 MHz users updated on the status of the rebanding effort designed to mitigate interference in the band shared by commercial carriers and public safety.

While Nextel had not agreed to the terms of the FCC's order as of press time and was not required to make a decision until Feb. 7, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau Chief John Muleta said officials believed it is important that the agency offer a “repository of information” about the rebanding proceeding.

In a related item, the FCC's International Bureau Chief Donald Abelson said officials in Canada and Mexico have been alerted to the rebanding effort, which will require changes in international treaties to be implemented along the borders.

Abelson said formal negotiations involving the State Department on the issue have not been initiated, but he expects talks at that level to begin “quite soon.” Some Beltway observers believe the State Department will not be asked to move on the item until recent changes to the 800 MHz order are finalized and Nextel agrees to the plan.

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