Verizon Wireless Expands 3G Network Coverage In Tompkins County, New York

•Improves coverage and capacity in Ithaca
•Provides access to 3G wireless broadband service
•Part of $100+ million network investment in Upstate New York in 2009
•Meet one of Upstate New York’s local Test Men, Jack Brandes

ITHACA, NY — Verizon Wireless is investing in Tompkins County and expanding its local coverage with a new cell site in Ithaca. The new site improves coverage and capacity east along Hanshaw Road to Route 13, west to Salem Drive, north on Sapsucker Road to Route 13, and south on Freese Road to Route 366.

This network expansion is part of the company’s aggressive multi-billion dollar network investment each year to stay ahead of the growing demand for Verizon Wireless’ voice and data services. The company has invested more than $50 billion nationwide since it was formed – $5.5 billion on average every year – and invested more than $100 million in Upstate New York in 2009.

“We’ve always believed even the most advanced device is only as good as the network it runs on. We continue to aggressively invest in our Upstate New York network to increase coverage and capacity for our customers, add new services, and maintain our 3G network leadership,” said Gene Fassett, executive director of Network for Verizon Wireless’ Upstate New York Region.

Services include wireless data services such as picture messaging, text messaging, V CAST and V CAST Music with Rhapsody, and MobileBroadband, the company’s high-speed wireless broadband network geared toward mobile professionals and business customers. It provides average download speeds of 600 kilobits per second (kbps) to 1.4 megabits per second, and average upload speeds of 500-800 kbps.

Strong demand for Verizon Wireless’ services continued during the third quarter of 2009 as the company added 1.2 million net new customers.

The company’s “nation’s most reliable wireless voice and 3G data network” reputation is based on network studies performed by real-life test men and women throughout the country. These engineers drive more than 90 specially equipped vehicles more than 1 million miles annually on Interstate, U.S. and state highways, as well as major roads and surface streets. Test vehicles are equipped with computers that automatically make more than 3 million voice call attempts and more than 16 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless’ network and the networks of other carriers.

For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.