Triton PCS Launches Service in Eight Additional Southeast Markets

Berwyn, PA-based Triton PCS Inc., the first member of the AT&T Wireless Services Inc. network of affiliates, has completed the second phase of its network construction with the introduction of digital wireless service in eight additional Southeast markets, bringing the total number of markets launched to 36. In total, the company has launched service in markets covering a population of 12.8 million people.

"By accelerating our build-out, we completed construction of Phase 2 and several Phase 3 markets ahead of schedule and now provide service in all our major population centers. As a result, we expect to see a positive impact on subscriber growth and roaming traffic in the second quarter," said Michael E. Kalogris, Triton PCS chairman and CEO. "Importantly, we are now focused entirely on our expanded highway build-out, which will provide ubiquitous coverage of more than 18,000 miles of major north-south highways and connecting highways among our markets."

Markets launched by the company this year include popular resort destinations along the Southeast coast such as Savannah, Hilton Head, and Beaufort, SC, as well as historic Asheville in western North Carolina. In addition, the company continued its expansion of service in western Virginia, introducing service in Staunton and Waynesboro to augment coverage along Interstate Route 81 and Interstate Route 64. The company also expanded service in Georgia with the launch of service in Athens, and in South Carolina with Greenwood.

Edited by Ellen Jensen