Verizon Wireless Launches Digital Service in Rock Springs

CHEYENNE, WY — Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest wireless provider, today announced the launch of digital service in Rock Springs, Wyoming. The new digital coverage is part of the company's $4 million investment in Wyoming in 2001. Verizon Wireless has made a series of network improvements since acquiring Wyoming markets last year. The current investment is part of a $4 billion investment to improve and extend the reach of its wireless network nationwide.

"The expansion of digital service in Rock Springs is an example of Verizon Wireless' commitment to continually develop and enhance its network," said Marni Walden, regional president for Verizon Wireless in the Mountain Region. "Digital service will provide our customers with numerous benefits, including greater call clarity and security, longer battery life and talk time immediately, and position the company to offer advanced wireless services such as Internet access and text messaging in the near future."

Digital service also allows consumers to take advantage of Verizon Wireless' national and regional SingleRate^SM plans. These plans offer service with no roaming or long distance charges, and are particularly appealing for travelers and business people. Digital customers can also take advantage of included digital plan features like caller ID and Voice Mail.

Previously, Verizon Wireless offered only analog service in the Rock Springs area. With the introduction of digital service, analog customers can continue to enjoy their existing service, or choose to upgrade to a digital phone to take advantage of the features and benefits of digital service.

"Verizon Wireless is pleased to bring residents of Rock Springs the most advanced wireless technology," Walden said. "For many, it will enhance the way they communicate and stay in touch. Superior call quality and features like voice mail and caller ID will make it even easier to stay in touch."

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the largest wireless communications provider in the U.S. with more than 28.7 million wireless voice and data customers. The coast-to-coast wireless provider was formed by the combination of the U.S. wireless businesses of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD), including Bell Atlantic Mobile, AirTouch Cellular, GTE Wireless and PrimeCo Personal Communications. Verizon Wireless has a footprint covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population, 49 of the top 50 and 97 of the top 100 U.S. markets. The company, headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, is 40,000 employees strong. Reporters and editors can find more information about the company on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.

####