Verizon (News - Alert) Wireless has activated a new cell site on the Penn State University Park campus, which enables more customers to use their wireless phones and enjoy clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.

Company officials said that the new cell site improves coverage and capacity on the western portion of campus, including West Halls, the Pattee Library and the Nittany Lion Inn. 

“We've always believed even the most advanced device is only as good as the network it runs on,” said Roger Tang, president–Ohio/Pennsylvania/West Virginia Region, Verizon Wireless. “We continue to aggressively invest in our Pennsylvania network to increase coverage and capacity for our customers, add new services and maintain our 3G network leadership.”

What’s more, according to company officials, the network improvement is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, improve capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. 

According to the company officials, Verizon Wireless has invested more than $50 billion since it was formed to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. 

In 2009, the company invested nearly $195 million in its Pennsylvania network.

Verizon Wireless operates wireless voice and 3G data network, serving 89 million customers. 

In December, Verizon Wireless reported that it had invested nearly $240 million in 2009 to further enhance advanced wireless services and coverage for Florida customers.

Company officials say the investment includes the activation of new cell sites, construction and upgrades to large network facilities, installation of special technology at high-traffic Florida venues, and the integration of the former Alltel (News - Alert) network and customers into the more advanced Verizon Wireless network.

According to a press release, a total of 65 new EV-DO Rev A cell sites were installed and activated throughout Florida in 2009 to strengthen coverage and enhance 3G high-speed wireless services in targeted areas for customers. 

Multi-site projects were completed in Orlando, the Panhandle, Jacksonville, Tampa Bay and near Ocala National Forest.

Verizon Wireless reportedly plans to launch its 4G Long Term Evolution wireless network in 25 to 30 markets nationally in 2010. 

These markets, company officials said, have not been identified, but all network enhancements in Florida in 2009 have been made to better prepare the network here for the eventual rollout of 4G LTE (News - Alert) technology.