As part of the carrier’s $4 million investment in its Wyoming network, Verizon Wireless launched digital service in Laramie, Wyo. Previously, the carrier only offered analog service in the area. Verizon Wireless also reported the upgrade of its digital network in the area around the Colorado Springs, Colo., airport. The carrier said it invested more than $40 million in its Colorado network last year, and plans to double the investment this year.
Sprint PCS and its network partner US Unwired Inc. launched personal communications service in Tupelo, Miss. To celebrate the launch, new customers in Tupelo will receive a $100 rebate on selected new phone purchases with their activation of $35 or higher and a two-year Advantage Agreement.
Leap Wireless International Inc. launched its Cricket Comfortable Wireless service in Fort Smith, Ark., its second market in Arkansas following the launch of service in Little Rock last year. Leap also completed two previously announced acquisitions of wireless operating licenses in Utica, N.Y., from Holland Wireless L.L.C., covering approximately 294,000 potential customers, and in Peoria, Ill., from Amica Wireless Phone Service, covering approximately 466,000 pops. Leap also signed a definitive agreement to acquire a wireless operating license in Owensboro, Ky., from Banana Communications L.L.C., covering 165,000 pops.
Nextel Partners Inc. broke ground on its new support facility at Beckrich Office Park, a St. Joe commercial development in Panama City Beach, Fla. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who attended the groundbreaking of the 65,000-square-foot customer support facility, said, “We strive to make Florida one of the most desirable states in the country to live, work and play, and I thank all of the Bay County civic, business and government leaders who made that message loud and clear to Nextel Partners.” The center, which is scheduled for completion in first quarter 2002, could employ up to 600 people and provide an economic boost of $10 million annually to the community.
