Verizon Wireless Brings COLT To The Du Quoin State Fair In Illinois

Full Transparency

Our editorial transparency tool uses blockchain technology to permanently log all changes made to official releases after publication.

More of our content is being permanently logged via blockchain technology starting [10.23.2020].

Learn more

DU QUOIN, IL — Verizon Wireless announced today it has temporarily enhanced its network capacity by more than 30 percent around the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Perry County, Ill., to accommodate the anticipated increase in its network activity by the thousands of fairgoers flocking to the area daily from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7.

The temporary cell site, also known as a COLT (Cell on Light Truck), is a fully functional mobile cell site that enhances wireless capacity in a given area. With the improved network coverage, more customers can use their wireless phones to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; and download games and ringtones (such as a favorite hit by Charlie Daniels Band or Craig Morgan, who are both performing) while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls. Verizon Wireless has placed its COLT just north of the fairgrounds.

"The Du Quoin State Fair attracts thousands of visitors to the fairgrounds, and based on past years' calling patterns, that means additional demand for our wireless service in the area," said Brendan Fallis, president—Southern Illinois/Kansas/Missouri Region for Verizon Wireless. "Our COLT enables us to meet that temporary increase in call volume, and to provide our customers with the high quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless."

The ability to meet network demand, even on a short-term basis, is part of the company's commitment to stay ahead of the growing need for Verizon Wireless' voice and data services. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $50 billion since it was formed-$5.5 billion on average every year-to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. Verizon Wireless continues to improve its network in Illinois. In the first half of this year, the company reports it has spent more than $80 million on new cell sites and other upgrades that give customers clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.

Editor's Note: For an onsite tour of the COLT, to take photos or to schedule an interview with a Verizon Wireless network expert, please call Cheryl Bini Armbrecht or Brenda Hill at 636-345-9400.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and data network, serving 87.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 87,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

####

Related Articles

02/15/2021

Virtual Reality (VR) has begun to transform medicine in profound ways. VR solutions are being used to train doctors and to plan and practice operations.

10/23/2020

Verizon’s military discounts site shows everything you need to know about Wireless offers, FiOS savings and military career opportunities, all in one place, making it simple for service members and veterans to discover what Verizon has to offer.