Senator Baucus Announces High-Speed Internet and Cell Phone Coverage for Signey and Fairview, Montana

Senator’s ‘Call to Action’ in Bakken Highlighted Need for Coverage in Bakken Communities

Montana U.S. Senator Max Baucus announced today that two new Verizon 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) cell sites are now fully operational in Sidney and Fairview, bringing much needed high-speed internet and cell phone service to the Bakken region. Baucus began highlighting the need for greater wireless coverage as part of his ‘Call to Action’ in the Bakken, after visiting the area last Spring and hearing from residents that inadequate cell and internet access were hampering growth and community development.

"High-speed internet and phone service are just another part of doing business in most parts of the country today, and we can’t let rural communities be left out." Baucus said. "We need all hands on deck to support every opportunity for job-creation and community development in the region, and these new cell sites are just one more tool in the toolbox to help Montana Bakken communities succeed. I’ll continue working with all providers, including rural Montana carriers to expand coverage for Montanans."

"With the growth of our 4G LTE network, Verizon Wireless and its partners are able to innovate and introduce solutions that are changing how people communicate and do business," said Chris Lewter, regional president for Verizon Wireless. "Verizon is pleased to bring 4G LTE service to the Bakken region, so even more Montana customers will have access to superfast speeds available on their 4G LTE smartphones, tablets and other devices, enhancing their communication with colleagues, family and friends."

The two new cell sites in Sidney and Fairview will compliment a partnership between Verizon Wireless and local carriers, Mid-Rivers Communications and Nemont, who will also be providing 4G coverage to Eastern Montana.

"We are thankful to Senator Baucus for working with our office to call attention to the need for more services in Eastern Montana. The major investments that Mid-Rivers Communications have made, in addition to the cooperation between Verizon and Mid-Rivers, is a win-win for the energy industry as well as local users," said Leslie Messer, Executive Director of Richland Economic Development in Sidney, Montana.

Baucus first launched his Bakken Call to Action http://www.baucus.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=845 in January 2012, and has continued to deliver new resources for energy-impacted communities ever since. In March, Baucus announced http://www.baucus.senate.gov/?p=press_release&id=1272 an infrastructure grant for water main construction in Custer County.