Gilbert has begun to fully implement Arizona's House Bill 2365 legislation, which allows wireless facilities to use municipal rights-of-way for their technology, making it the first community in the state to fully execute the program. 

The small cell technology program, which includes the fees set by the legislation, was implemented prior to the February deadline. The bill allows wireless providers to use streetlights, traffic signals and other utility poles to install wireless facilities. 

"Gilbert is the first community in Arizona and, very likely, in the country to fully implement a small cell technology program like this," Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels said in a press release. "This is a critical step in preparing our community for future jobs and technologies, and will help us tremendously as Gilbert continues to grow."

The town has been working with Verizon Wireless and AT&T, as well as with representatives from communities across the state to develop an application process that makes it easier for providers but still allows town officials to have oversight.

According to the town, the small wireless facilities installed due to the program will allow providers to add capacity to their networks, which will in turn give businesses and residents better cell phone coverage and wireless data services.