Verizon Seeks to Offer an LTE Network in Alaska

WASHINGTON, August 30, 2010 – A recent filing by Verizon to the Federal Communications Commission shows that the firm may set up a long-term evolution network in Alaska. The filing was an application for the acquisition of the 700 megahertz band from Triad.

Verizon said the transaction will allow Verizon Wireless, which currently holds no spectrum in Alaska, to provide voice, broadband data and other wireless products and services in a new service area.

Additionally, because Verizon Wireless holds no spectrum in Alaska, the company says that no competitive concerns are implicated with respect to its plan.

Triad hadn’t begun to provide service over the spectrum that Verizon seeks to acquire so “no customers are jeopardized or will lose service as a result of this transaction. Moreover, the proposed transaction will increase competition in Alaska by allowing Verizon Wireless to enter Alaska markets as a new wireless competitor,” according to the firm.

Verizon already owns much of 700MHz band in most of the continental United States.