Verizon Preps for Florida Spring Breakers with $240M Investment in 3G Network Enhancements

When droves of college students from around the country expected to hit Florida's spring break hot spots this year, they can count on the Verizon Wireless 3G network to handle their millions of voice calls, text and picture messages, downloads and more to stay in touch with friends at the next beach party or family back home.

Verizon Wireless has invested more than $240 million in network enhancements in Florida since last year's spring break to further boost its high-speed coverage and services. This includes integrating former Alltel network cell sites and facilities into the more advanced Verizon Wireless network across the state. Verizon Wireless acquired Alltel last year.

Enhancements include adding new cell sites across the state, upgrading hardware and software at other cell sites and large switching facilities, installing in-building systems at numerous hotels popular with spring breakers, and making many other improvements. In addition, real-life test men and women -- on whom the iconic Verizon Wireless spokesperson is based -- have driven thousands of miles across the state to thoroughly test the company's network in preparation for spring break and other large events.

The 3G data network is ideal for college students who are "power users" of advanced services such as text, picture and video messages; downloads of games, music and other applications; uploads to social media sites; Web surfing; V CAST Mobile TV and more.

Later this year, Verizon Wireless plans to launch its 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless network -- which will offer higher wireless speeds and reliability than even today's most advanced 3G network -- in 25 to 30 markets nationally. These markets have not been identified, but recent network enhancements in Florida have been made to prepare the network for the eventual rollout of 4G LTE technology.