AT&T Lights Up 3G Network in Vermont

Posted on Wed, Dec. 16, 2009

AT&T Lights Up 3G Network in Vermont

AT&T* today announced an update on the availability of its third generation (3G) mobile broadband network in Vermont.

"Vermonters are keenly aware of the value and importance of having access to high speed voice and data networks within the state and the news of AT&T's introduction of 3G capabilities to their network is welcome, indeed," said Thomas E. Murray, Executive Director of the Vermont Telecommunications Authority. "The VTA values the investments of partners like AT&T in Vermont as the VTA works toward fulfilling its mission to make broadband and wireless coverage available across the state."

AT&T's third generation (3G) mobile broadband network opens the door to a new era of mobile services and feature-rich audio and video content for AT&T customers. As part of AT&T's initial network upgrade plan, 3G will go live on a rolling basis starting in Bennington, Brattleboro, Brownsville, Killington, Vernon, Warren, West Dover and White River Junction sometime this week. By December 31st, 3G will be added in Burlington, Colchester, Essex Junction, Fayston, Hartford, Jamaica, Jeffersonville, Middlebury, Rutland, South Burlington, St. Albans, Stowe, Waitsfield, West Rutland, West Townshend, West Wardsboro, Williston and Winooski.

This year's 3G expansion is the first part of an ongoing network upgrade in Vermont. Additional coverage enhancements, including early first quarter 3G expansions in Barre, Montpelier and Northfield are already planned for 2010.

"Delivering dependable wireless coverage for consumers and business customers who need to stay connected to work, family and friends is our ultimate objective," said William Leahy, vice president of Atlantic region legislative and regulatory affairs for AT&T. "Our ongoing investments in the state will help us ensure that our customers have access to the wireless services that help drive economic growth."

In addition its local 3G expansion, AT&T has integrated all legacy Unicel cell sites in Vermont into AT&T's existing nationwide network and added a dozen new cell sites across the state. AT&T closed its acquisition of Unicel's Vermont assets in December 2008.

"It has been an exciting first year for us in Vermont and we are thrilled to bring 3G to the state," said Steve Krom, vice president and general manager, AT&T New England. "We know that demand for wireless bandwidth is growing, whether it's for sharing video and photos with friends, watching a movie, checking the latest scores, or listening to music on a phone, netbook or other mobile devices on the go."

http://www.sunherald.com/prnewswire/v-print/story/1812939.html