Verizon Wireless Invests $27 Million in its South Dakota Network in 2003
SIOUX FALLS, SD — Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest wireless service provider, today reported it invested $27 million during 2003 in South Dakota in a continuing effort to provide the best wireless service for local residents.
As part of this 2003 investment, Verizon Wireless converted all of its South Dakota cell sites to digital technology and its 1XRTT NationalAccess high-speed data service. In addition, the company activated eight new cell sites and added capacity to 44 sites to enhance service around the state.
For 2004, Verizon Wireless will build across the state twice the number of new cell sites activated last year and complete a new mobile switching center in Sioux Falls to ensure future network capacity to meet South Dakotans' increasing demand for wireless service. The company also plans to dedicate four portable cells on wheels (COWs) to South Dakota to be used for emergency purposes and for adding capacity at special events such as the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Rapid City.
"We have increased our network capacity and brought the latest technology to South Dakota during 2003," said Viki L. Radden, president Verizon Wireless' Great Plains Region, "and in 2004 we will continue to invest in our network operations in the state."
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications. The company has the largest nationwide wireless voice and data network and 36 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com. To receive broadcast-quality video footage of Verizon Wireless operations, log onto www.thenewsmarket.com.
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