Metro Detroiters to Receive Increased Reliability in Wireless Phone Service During Emergencies

DETROIT, MI — With an eye on potential power outages, the upcoming, unpredictable spring weather and other unforeseen emergencies, Verizon Wireless will install 110 backup generators at new and existing cell sites throughout Michigan in 2004 to ensure network functionality during times of crisis.

"We're investing $4.4 million to give customers peace of mind that their wireless phones will work during emergencies," said Greg Haller, president - Michigan/Indiana/ Kentucky Region, Verizon Wireless. "Having permanent rather than portable generators at our cell sites is a key part of our strategy to provide greater network reliability across the state."

During the crippling power outage of August 2003, Verizon Wireless' network remained operational because many of the company's cell sites already had permanent generators. Additionally, the company shuttled 30 portable generators to cell sites across Michigan that weren't fitted with permanent units.

"This investment is a direct extension of our commitment to provide the best nationwide network," Haller continued. "We want our customers to know they can depend on their phones not only in times of normalcy, but also in times of emergency."

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 37.5 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/verizonwireless.

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