The first nationwide interoperable communications network for first responders is facing another delay.

America’s first nationwide public safety communications network took one step closer to reality Wednesday when the First Responder Network Authority — better known as FirstNet — announced a new facility where future private industry partners will test technology and train personnel how to use it.

One year after launching its Smart Cities Initiative, the White House announced Monday the federal government is expanding its efforts by investing an additional $80 million-plus in localized technology-driven initiatives.

The deal, under which Washington state's Air National Guard penetration tested the computer network of a state-owned utility, took two years to put together and could be replicated nationwide.

The head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services visited the West Coast this week to pitch Silicon Valley startups to innovate around Medicaid.

Out of 78 cities across the country that applied, U.S. Transportation Department Secretary Anthony Foxx announced seven finalist cities that will compete for $40 million in funding.