Cellcom to partner with Verizon Wireless for LTE

Green Bay-based regional wireless provider Cellcom said it has signed an agreement to participate in Verizon Wireless’ LTE in Rural America program. Through this partnership Cellcom and Verizon Wireless (VZ) will build an LTE network in Cellcom’s services areas using Verizon Wireless’ 700 MHz spectrum.
Verizon Wireless noted Cellcom was the fourth carrier to join the program since it launched in June 2010. The other carriers include Bluegrass Cellular, Pioneer Cellular and Cross Telephone.
“This partnership will allow Cellcom to once again deliver the same technology that is offered in major metropolitan areas to residents of Northeast and Central Wisconsin and select areas of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,” said Patrick Riordan, president and CEO of Cellcom.
Cellcom said it expects to begin launching the LTE network during the first quarter of 2012.