Verizon Wireless invested $61M in Missouri, $44M in Kansas in 2009

Verizon invested $105M in Kansas, Missouri in 2009

SAN FRANCISCO — Verizon Wireless said Friday that it invested over $61 million last year to improve its digital network in Missouri, and over $44 million to improve its digital network in Kansas.

Verizon, the largest cell phone carrier in the U.S, is locked in a fight for customers with AT&T Inc.

Last month, the company slashed prices for its unlimited monthly calling plan, only to be matched later in the day by AT&T, the second largest company.

Both companies claim to provide better coverage.

In Missouri, Verizon said Friday that it built 30 new cell sites and upgraded equipment at 730 current cell sites to beef up its voice and high-speed 3G network’s coverage and capacity.

In Kansas, the company built 18 new cell sites and upgraded equipment at 449 current cell sites.

The company has invested more than $390 million in its Missouri network and $214 million in its Kansas network since forming in 2000.

Shares of Verizon Communications Inc. fell 10 cents to $28.94 in afternoon trading.