Rural Carriers are Essential to Bringing 4G Services to Rural America
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lucy Tutwiler
June 3, 2010 (202) 449-9866
Rural Carriers are Essential to Bringing 4G Services to Rural America
Washington, DC - The Rural Cellular Association (RCA) is pleased that Verizon Wireless recognizes that rural carriers are essential to bringing 4G LTE services to rural America; however, RCA remains concerned that Verizon is only interested in partnerships that will benefit its bottom line by filling in current coverage gaps, rather than finding solutions to data roaming, interoperability of 700 MHz spectrum and handset availability to help bring 4G solutions to rural America.
Today Verizon launched its new site, "LTE in Rural America," describing its vision to partner with smaller carriers that can help bring 4G services to rural areas. In response to Verizon's actions, RCA President & CEO Steven K. Berry said, "RCA has been in discussions with Verizon and other major carriers for months trying to find a non-regulatory solution to data roaming that will benefit consumers and public safety, especially in rural areas. We can work to bring interoperable, 4G services to all rural Americans, not just the select few that Verizon is willing to partner with, through data roaming agreements, by ending handset exclusivity and allowing a full build out of 700 MHz spectrum."
"Verizon has a standing invitation, and RCA is ready and willing to work with Verizon or any other group," Berry continued. "We can find solutions that not only will bring the industry together, but also will benefit consumers and public safety throughout rural America."
About RCA
RCA is the nation's leading association for wireless providers serving rural areas of the United States. The licensed service area of RCA's nearly 85 members covers more than 80 percent of the nation.
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