Verizon Invests $3.2 Million to Better Serve Pennsylvania's Centre County Customers

BELLEFONTE, Pa. - More Verizon customers in Centre County can now enjoy the benefits of high-speed Internet access because of a $3.2 million investment the company has made in its local telecommunications network here.

As a result of Verizon's most recent expansion and upgrade of its local telecommunications network, Verizon Online DSL is now available on more than 2,600 additional lines in the Bellefonte area. This project is part of Verizon Pennsylvania's Chapter 30 network modernization plan to aggressively roll out DSL and other high-speed, broadband services across the commonwealth.

"The Centre County investment underlines 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're continuing 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, and video services through the company's marketing agreement with DIRECTV. The Verizon Freedom bundle of services offers the convenience of one bill and very attractive discounts for customers who subscribe to several of these 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."

Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world's leading providers of communications services. With a diverse work force of approximately 208,000, Verizon has four business units: Domestic Telecom serves customers based in 29 states with wireline telecommunications services, including broadband, nationwide long-distance and other services. Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 42.1 million voice and data customers across the United States. Information Services operates directory publishing businesses and provides electronic commerce services. International includes wireline and wireless operations and investments, primarily in the Americas and Europe. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

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