Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) filed an application with the FCC yesterday to acquire the 700 MHz C Block spectrum license covering Alaska from Triad, a designated entity that purchased the license during the FCC's 700 MHz spectrum auction in 2008. Triad paid around $1.8 million for the license. Verizon declined to disclose the purchase price for the license.
According to Verizon spokeswoman Nancy Stark, this license will complete Verizon's nationwide 700 MHz footprint, and will allow the company to provide voice, data and other wireless services in Alaska. Verizon is planning to deploy LTE throughout its 700 MHz footprint, and has promised to launch 25-30 unnamed, commercial LTE markets in the fourth quarter of this year, covering 100 million POPs.
Verizon said it does not currently operate a network in Alaska, though it does offer service through a roaming partner.
Alaska Communications is a dominant wireless service provider in Alaska. In addition, AT&T (NYSE:T) offers wireless service in the state. AT&T acquired this market when it purchased Dobson Cellular in 2007.
For more:
- see this filing
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