Cell Phones?

There is probably a very good reason why they can't just use the existing cell phone network augmented with some portable base stations bolted to the backs of fire engines to cope with widespread power failures.

Wonder what the reason is...

What do you expect

NY is run by a bunch of socialist wannabe liberals who excel in wasting the peoples money all in the name of we want to help you whether you like it or not.
It's the same elitists who put forth idiotic bills such as requiring your dog to wear a seat belt and many others just as dumb and almost always wanting more money for their social programs.
Regulas

Readers that can't communicate

Regulas...thou art surely an idiot.

New York City runs NY state. New York City is the center of international finance. Most major corporations have a major presence in the big Apple. It's the seat of commerce for America and a shining beacon to capitalism worldwide. Hence it was the target for a buncha raving lunatics, hence the need for this radio network. To use your logic, it seems the corporations of NY City can't protect themselves. Liberals might actually believe in something more advanced than Marconi's transmitter.