Verizon Invests $1.6 Million to Better Serve University City, Pa. Customers

PHILADELPHIA -- Verizon customers in the University City section of Philadelphia have improved communications as the result of a $1.6 million investment the company has made in one of its local call-switching centers.

Verizon installed new equipment, including advanced power systems that enable the company to provide critical telecommunications services in the event of a commercial power disruption, such as those that occurred last year during Hurricane Isabel and the Northeast blackout.

The equipment also allows Verizon to more efficiently monitor power systems and diagnose potential network power problems, thus increasing reliability in the Verizon network. The company completed the projects earlier this year.

In addition to these investments, Verizon continues to install fiber-optic cable throughout the commonwealth. Fiber-optic systems use hair-thin glass fibers and digital technology to deliver high-quality telephone service along with sophisticated data communications services. Verizon Pennsylvania ranks fifth among the nation's local telephone companies in fiber-optic cable installed in its network, according to reports compiled by the Federal Communications Commission.

"This project underline Verizon's commitment to build and maintain a state-of-the-art telecommunications network throughout Pennsylvania," said James V. O'Rourke, president and CEO of Verizon Pennsylvania. "We continue to upgrade our infrastructure to provide rural, suburban and urban customers with better quality service, as well as the platform for high-speed access to the Internet, work-at-home capabilities and a host of other innovative services."

Verizon has invested nearly $8.5 billion in its telecommunications network across the commonwealth over the last decade.

"We are building an advanced telecommunications network that will stimulate job and income growth and will make Pennsylvania one of the most attractive locations for corporations and individuals," O'Rourke said.

In addition to deploying the latest technology, Verizon Pennsylvania offers a complete range of telecommunications services, including local, regional and long-distance calling, as well as high-speed data and Internet and wireless services. The Verizon Freedom bundle of services offers the convenience of one bill and very attractive discounts for customers who subscribe to several Verizon services.

"The level of telecom competition in Pennsylvania today is unprecedented," said O'Rourke. "Competition and Verizon's entry into the long-distance market have benefited consumers, who now can choose from many providers for all their communications needs."

A Dow 30 company, Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world's leading providers of communications services, with approximately $68 billion in annual revenues. Verizon companies are the largest providers of wireline and wireless communications in the United States. Verizon is also the largest directory publisher in the world, as measured by directory titles and circulation. Verizon's international presence includes wireline and wireless communications operations and investments, primarily in the Americas and Europe. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

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