AT&T invests nearly $850 million in Virginia from 2010-2012

AT&T says it has invested nearly $850 million in its Virginia wireless and wire line networks from 2010 through 2012. A particular focus has been on expanding 4G LTE mobile Internet coverage and enhancing the overall performance of its networks. 

The company said in a press release that it has made nearly 1,400 wireless network upgrades in six categories in Virginia during 2012. They include activating new cell sites, adding capacity, upgrading cell sites to provide fast 4G LTE mobile Internet speeds, deploying high-capacity Ethernet connections to cell sites and adding or upgrading antenna systems, which boost wireless coverage and capacity at major venues like convention halls. 

“Delivering for our Virginia customers is a top priority and our ongoing investment here is designed to deliver a superior mobile Internet experience, encompassing speed, coverage and reliability,” Erika K. Thompson-Kemp, AT&T vice president general manager for Virginia and West Virginia, said in a statement.

AT&T launched 4G LTE in the Richmond area in December 2012. It’s the latest generation of wireless network technology and provides faster mobile Internet speeds on a variety of mobile smartphones and tablets. 

“Broadband access is a priority in the commonwealth because it is such a powerful driver for economic development,” said Barry E. DuVal, president & CEO, Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

AT&T recently launched a three-year investment initiative to expand wireless and wired IP broadband networks. As part of this project, it plans to expand 4G LTE to cover more than 300 million people by year-end 2014 and to expand the AT&T fiber network to reach 1 million additional business locations by year-end 2015.