Verizon Wireless Invests $66 Million in North Carolina Network In First Half of 2013

RALEIGH, N.C., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless announced today it invested over $66 million in North Carolina during the first half of 2013 to improve and expand its wireless broadband and voice networks. The company's high-speed 4G LTE wireless service is now available to more than 95 percent of all North Carolinians.

Verizon's coverage in North Carolina spans 41,196 square miles of the state.

"Because 95 percent of the U.S. population can access Verizon's 4G LTE, we're seeing more businesses, government agencies and schools implementing cutting-edge, connected technology that revolutionizes things like emergency services and small business efficiency," said Jerry Fountain, president of the Verizon Wireless Carolinas/Tennessee region. "Since 2000, Verizon has invested $1.7 billion in our network in North Carolina to ensure customers have reliable service and a superior mobile experience."

Verizon's capital investment in North Carolina also fuels year-round preparations for severe weather like floods and hurricanes, when network reliability is crucial. The company maintains a fleet of cells on wheels (COWS), cells on light trucks (COLTS) and generators on trailers (GOaTS) for immediate deployment to provide extra network capacity when disasters strike.

Verizon Wireless is a major employer in North Carolina, currently employing more than 2,600 residents, as well as operating 60 retail store locations and customer call centers in Charlotte and Wilmington.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 98.9 million retail customers, including 93.2 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 73,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD).  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com.  For the latest news and updates about Verizon Wireless, visit our News Center at http://news.verizonwireless.com or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNews. 

SOURCE Verizon Wireless