Verizon to Introduce High-Speed Internet Access Service in Macomb This Fall

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - Verizon will soon raise the online speed limit in Macomb with the introduction of its digital subscriber line (DSL) service for residential and businesses customers.

Verizon plans to begin offering DSL service in November to customers in Macomb. The announcement was made today during a luncheon with local business leaders involving Tom Schmersahl, director -Verizon public policy and external affairs; Debra Fallin, manager-Verizon customer operations and Sen. Laura Kent Donahue.

"Verizon is fulfilling our commitment to offer high-speed access to customers in Macomb," said Schmersahl, who noted that Donahue has been a strong proponent of deploying new technologies in the area. "Expanding broadband is part of Verizon's ongoing investment in its telecommunications network serving the region."

"High-speed Internet access will empower our businesses, non-profit organizations and educational institutions," said Donahue. "It will help to ensure that we have the physical infrastructure to compete with other communities across Illinois and the United States. In particular, the educational community near the Western Illinois University campus will benefit, along with small and large businesses in the area."

Schmersahl added: "DSL provides the speeds necessary to take full advantage of the Internet or other data operations, from small business applications and online shopping to downloading video clips and telecommuting."

Verizon has already started installing DSL equipment in its Washington Street central call-switching office. The company will provide information about how customers can order DSL service closer to the time of availability.

DSL service generally is available to homes and offices located within approximately three miles of Verizon's switching office.

Verizon Communications

Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world's leading providers of communications services. Verizon companies are the largest providers of wireline and wireless communications in the United States, with 135.1 million access line equivalents and 30.3 million Verizon Wireless customers. Verizon is also the largest directory publisher in the world. With more than $67 billion in annual revenues and approximately 241,000 employees, Verizon's global presence extends to more than 40 countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. For more information on Verizon, visit www.verizon.com.

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