Verizon Deploys Fiber Optics To Expand Telecommunications Capacity Between Princeton and New Castle

NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- A recently completed upgrade by Verizon Communications will greatly enhance the capacity and

reliability of the company's telecommunications network serving customers in Princeton and New Castle. The $350,000

investment is the company's largest fiber-optic project in Lawrence County this year.

Verizon installed fiber-optic cables and electronic equipment linking its central office facilities in the two

communities. The cables contain the equivalent of 277 fiber miles, the total length if all the new fibers in the cable

were placed end to end. This advanced technology will improve customer service and help set the stage for a host of

innovative advanced services, including high-speed Internet access and work-at-home capabilities.

Fiber-optic systems use hair-thin glass strands and digital technology to deliver high quality telephone services along

with high-capacity/high-speed voice and data services.

"This project demonstrates Verizon's commitment to deliver a state-of-the-art telecommunications network throughout

Pennsylvania," said Daniel J. Whelan, president of Verizon Pennsylvania. "We will continue to bring the latest

technologies and services to customers in rural, suburban and urban areas of the state."

Verizon's investment in Pennsylvania's network will reach nearly $1 billion this year, totaling $3 billion in the past

three years.

"We are building a telecommunications infrastructure that will enhance Pennsylvania's ability to stimulate economic

growth, attract new jobs and businesses and help shape our state's future in the 21st century," said Whelan.

In addition to deploying the latest technology, Verizon recently launched an array of long-distance calling plans for

Pennsylvania consumers and businesses. In September, Verizon received approval from the Federal Communications

Commission to compete in Pennsylvania's $3.3 billion long-distance market. The company now offers Pennsylvanians a

complete range of telecommunication services, including local, regional and long-distance calling, data, high-speed

Internet and wireless services.

"The level of telecom competition in Pennsylvania today is unprecedented," said Whelan. "As Verizon

competes for long-distance customers, competitors will continue to reach out to the local market. And consumers will win

big as a result."

Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world's leading providers of communications services. Verizon companies

are the largest providers of wireline and wireless communications in the United States, with 125 million access line

equivalents and more than 28 million wireless customers. Verizon is also the largest directory publisher in the world.

A Fortune 10 company with about 260,000 employees and approximately $65 billion in annual revenues, Verizon's global

presence extends to more than 40 countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. For more information on

Verizon, visit www.verizon.com.

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