Verizon Wireless Expands Network Coverage On Island Of Maui, Hawai'i

MAUI, HI — In a continuing effort to provide the best wireless service for Hawai'i residents and visitors alike, Verizon Wireless has expanded its digital, high-speed network on Maui by adding a new cell site in the resort area of Wailea between Makena and Kihei on the south end of the island. The new cell site improves coverage in Wailea, a popular vacation destination offering resort hotels, golf courses, and condominiums.

"This network expansion allows us to continue to stay ahead of the growing demand for reliable wireless voice and data services — for both individual customers and local businesses," said Mark Yamauchi, Verizon Wireless director of Hawai'i sales.

In 2003, Verizon Wireless invested more than $9 million to further expand and enhance its wireless voice and data network in Hawai'i, and safeguard network reliability. Each year, Verizon Wireless invests on average about a billion dollars every 90 days in its national network, constantly improving and expanding what is already the most reliable nationwide wireless network in the United States.

The company's 'most reliable network' claim is based on network studies performed by real-life test men and test women who inspired the company's national advertising campaign. They conduct more than 300,000 call attempts monthly on Verizon Wireless' and other national wireless carriers' networks, while traveling over 100,000 miles of the most frequently traveled roadways nationwide in specially equipped, company-owned quality test vehicles.

Verizon Wireless' network reliability is also supported by industry-leading redundancy and maintenance measures, which have proven particularly valuable during severe weather or other emergencies. Verizon Wireless network reliability features include battery back-up power at all facilities as well as generators installed at all switching facilities and many cell site locations. The company also operates a fleet of mobile generators and temporary cell sites, or cells-on-wheels, ready for deployment.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 42.1 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com. To receive broadcast-quality video footage of Verizon Wireless operations, log onto www.thenewsmarket.com/verizonwireless.

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