Company Makes DSL High-Speed Internet Service Available to 187,000 More Phone Lines Across State in 2004

HARRISBURG, Pa., /PRNewswire/ More Pennsylvania consumers and businesses are benefiting from one of the nation’s most advanced broadband telecommunications networks, thanks to Verizon’s aggressive network investment in the state.

The company expects to make Verizon Online DSL high-speed Internet service available on about 187,000 additional telephone lines across the Keystone State this year. Currently, approximately 80 percent of Verizon’s Pennsylvania phone lines are qualified for DSL service.

«Verizon is delivering on its promise to provide broadband capability throughout the commonwealth,» said Verizon Pennsylvania President and CEO James V. O’Rourke. «Our investment in new network technology will improve Pennsylvania’s economy, bring new jobs to the state and improve the standard of living for all residents.»

Verizon has invested more than $8.5 billion in its Pennsylvania network while operating over the last decade under an alternative regulation plan known as Chapter 30.

«We want to provide the technology Pennsylvania needs for success in the 21st century by investing in the broadband future as aggressively as we can,» O’Rourke said. «The boundless potential of broadband is creating new opportunities for consumers, small and large businesses and entrepreneurs who use our networks.»

Examples of Verizon’s most recent additions of DSL-capable lines in Pennsylvania include 8,000 lines in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County; 5,000 lines in Ellwood City, Lawrence County; 4,000 lines in Hollidaysburg, Blair County; 10,000 lines in the Poconos area; and more than 5,000 lines in several Berks County towns.

Currently, Verizon Online is offering its basic consumer DSL service for $29.95 per month in an annual service plan or when purchased in combination with Verizon Freedom or another Verizon local or long-distance bundle. This service offers a maximum connection speed of 1.5 Mbps (megabits per second) downstream and 384 Kbps (kilobits per second) upstream.

Verizon Online has also enhanced its DSL service by introducing a super-fast maximum Internet connection speed of 3 Mbps (megabits per second) downstream and 768 Kbps (kilobits per second) upstream for as low as $39.95 per month in an annual service plan when purchased as part of a package of calling services. In addition, the company has lowered the cost of its entry-level business service.

«The surest way to fuel growth in telecommunications is to adopt public policies that foster competition and investment in technology of the future,» O’Rourke said. «The state Senate currently is considering legislation that would do just that.

»We urge the General Assembly and the governor to approve this legislation, which will encourage investment that will deliver long-term economic benefits to all Pennsylvanians."

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ — News) 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 [ >>> ]

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