Project Overview & Highlights

Client:

George Mason University

Location:

FUSE Building, Arlington, VA

Services:

Public Safety DAS, 4G/5G Neutral Host DAS, System Coordination

Accomplishments:

  • Designed coverage solutions
  • Installed code-compliant P25 radio coverage
  • Delivered multi-carrier 4G/5G integration
  • Compliance with local regulatory requirements

Project Details

The Challenges

The FUSE building project required meeting strict public safety radio standards while integrating multiple wireless systems into a large, architecturally complex smart building. With numerous stakeholders and evolving design requirements, tight coordination was essential throughout the multi-year construction process.

The Solutions

Widelity provided expert guidance on code compliance, fire alarm integration, and pathway survivability, ensuring a smooth approval process with county compliance requirements. Through continuous collaboration with architects, trades, and wireless carriers, the team adapted to design changes, resolved conflicts early, and kept all stakeholders aligned.

The Results

The FUSE building now features reliable first-responder radio coverage and seamless 4G/5G service from all major carriers, supporting its mission as a state-of-the-art hub for research, innovation, and collaboration.

Barry Graves Custom Wireless Division
Barry Graves
Sr. Vice President & Director,
Custom Wireless Division

Barry Graves Custom Wireless Division

Barry is a distinguished leader in the telecommunications industry, currently heading the Custom Wireless division at Widelity. In his role, Barry oversees business development, design, and deployment of cutting-edge cellular neutral host systems, P25 2-way public safety radio distributed antenna systems, and other advanced wired and wireless building communications infrastructures. Known for his hands-on approach and executive acumen, Barry excels in completing highly complex technical projects, whether directly or by coordinating matrixed teams. He has a remarkable ability to define problems, strip away unnecessary details, and devise innovative, effective solutions.

Barry’s career began over 30 years ago at Nortel Networks, where he started as a field service engineer. Over an eleven-year tenure at Nortel, he advanced to senior roles in Engineering and Product Management. As a subject matter expert, Barry contributed to numerous projects in emerging markets, including pivotal assignments in Israel and Pakistan.

Following his successful stint at Nortel, Barry joined Nextlink Communications as the Director of Engineering for Broadband Wireless. There, he was instrumental in leveraging Nextlink’s newly acquired LMDS spectrum across multiple U.S. markets. Barry built and led a new wireless engineering team, established a production process for broadband wireless technology design and deployment, and provided expert guidance to local market teams.

In 2001, Barry took on dual roles at InnerWireless, one of the pioneering companies in in-building wireless technology, serving as both Director of Customer Engineering and Director of Product Development. His initial focus was on transforming shop-built prototype components into economically viable mass-produced products. Concurrently, Barry developed the products, tools, performance criteria, and processes essential for deploying the InnerWireless solution. His expertise was crucial in obtaining technical approval for deploying the system in China, acting as a liaison with Chinese mobile operators and the Ministry of Communications.

As a Principal at Widelity, Barry has contributed to several large-scale projects. These include design/build initiatives for LMDS license preservation, senior project management for a Texas state-wide wireless backhaul supporting the Sprint-Clearwire WiMax deployment, and early prototype design and deployment for the SmartSky aviation network. Notably, Barry was the project lead and architect for the FiberLight project, deploying over 300 long-range microwave backhaul links in rural Texas. His proficiency spans the tower build and modification process, site acquisition, microwave backhaul, and 4G/5G mobile wireless design.

Barry holds a BS in Engineering from Texas A&M University, College Station. He is iBwave Level 2 certified and possesses various product certifications from leading manufacturers. As a licensed amateur radio operator (General Class, callsign KJ5GQM), Barry enjoys sailing, engaging in DIY projects, and exploring automotive innovations.

Trust Widelity for Impact & Results

Scroll to Top