AT&T Invests $575 Million In Phoenix LTE

AT&T is again stepping up efforts to bolster its 4G LTE mobile broadband network, announcing Wednesday that it had invested nearly $575 million dollars between 2010 and 2013 to improve Internet speed in the Phoenix area alone. The carrier says it made more than 150 network upgrades in the area just in 2013, including new cell towers and the addition of extra network bandwidth.

The project to improve data connections in the Phoenix area is part of AT&T’s Project Velocity IP (VIP), which aims to improve both wireless and wired access to the Internet.

“Phoenix area residents depend on our fast and reliable Internet connections more and more every day, whether it’s instant access to files and apps at work, watching a video at home, or even receiving updates from connected cars or home monitors,” said Jerry Fuentes, president of AT&T Arizona and New Mexico. “AT&T is making robust investments locally to make sure that residents can take full advantage of the latest services and tools, and that businesses have the speed they need to compete and grow.”

Currently, AT&T provides 4G LTE access to almost 280 million subscribers in the U.S. and says that deployment of its mobile broadband network is ahead of schedule and on track to be completed by the end of 2014.

In addition to 4G LTE, the carrier says it also operates the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network, comprised of more than 32,000 Hot Spots stateside with support for more than a half million others around the world through data roaming agreements.

“Continued investment in fast and reliable Internet networks is critical for both quality of life and economic growth in Arizona,” said Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.  “Enhanced wireless connectivity is an important benefit for residents and businesses.”

If you’re interested in taking a look at AT&T’s coverage map, it’s available here.