Assemblymember Karen McMahon (D-Amherst) announced that her legislation to improve cell service in East Amherst has been signed into law (Ch. 325 of 2025). The legislation allows for the construction of a new wireless communications tower to improve previously unreliable cellular network coverage that has impacted residents and visitors to the area.

“Ensuring access to reliable, high-quality cell service is of the utmost importance,” said Assemblymember McMahon. “Nobody should have to worry about whether they will be able to make a phone call to a loved one, let alone to 911 during an emergency or natural disaster. I sponsored this legislation to help keep East Amherst safe, by providing continuous coverage to improve the quality of life for residents.”

Several East Amherst residents have raised concerns about public safety and emergency communications due to the lack of cell service, a considerable health and safety issue, noted McMahon. The new cell phone tower will enhance communication across the area, providing better service for calls and data usage.

“The Town of Amherst worked diligently with our New York State leaders to address a serious gap in our communication capabilities,” said Town of Amherst Deputy Supervisor Shawn Lavin. “Portions of East Amherst consistently experience communication dead spots that significantly impact mobile cell service. The impact of lost service could be catastrophic in an emergency. We now have a solution to improve critical communication services for that area.”