Verizon Wireless Expands Its Network in Cortland County

CORTLAND, N.Y., Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- In a continuing effort to provide the best wireless service for local residents in Cortland County, Verizon Wireless, operator of the nation's most reliable wireless network, has completed work that increases by 25 percent the number of calls its extensive wireless network can handle. The expansion provides increased capacity in the Preble area.

This network expansion is part of the company's aggressive multi-billion Dollar network investment each year (more than $1 billion every 90 days) to stay ahead of the growing demand for Verizon Wireless voice and data services. The company invested more than $5.5 billion in its wireless network last year as part of its commitment to offer customers the most reliable service available in the nation, including wireless data services such as picture messaging, text messaging, and wireless Internet access. NationalAccess, the company's national high-speed wireless data network, provides wireless Internet access at speeds between 60 and 80 kbps, with bursts up to 144 kbps.

Strong demand for Verizon Wireless services continued during the third quarter of 2005 as the company added an industry record 1.9 million net new customers and maintained its position as the nation's wireless leader in customer loyalty in terms of customer retention and lowest turnover rate, as reported by the largest wireless providers.

The company's "most reliable network" claim is based on network studies performed by real-life test men and test women throughout the country who inspired the "can you hear me now" national advertising campaign. These engineers conduct more than 3.6 million test calls a year on Verizon Wireless' and other national carriers' networks while traveling over 12 million miles annually in specially equipped, company-owned test vehicles.

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you are interested in setting up an interview or ride-along test drive with your local Verizon Wireless test man or woman, please contact John O'Malley at 585-321-7264.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 49.3 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. To receive broadcast-quality video footage of Verizon Wireless operations, log onto http://www.thenewsmarket.com/verizonwireless.