AT&T announces plans to invest approximately $350 million throughout the next several years in fiber network upgrades, further broadband deployment and Internet-based technologies to bring new services, including cutting-edge television, to North Carolina consumers.

The announcement is a direct result of the forward-looking approach to the communications and entertainment industry adopted by the General Assembly last year in passing House Bill 2047, the Video Service Competition Act. HB 2047 streamlined the process by which companies could enter the competitive video-services market. Companies now must obtain a state-issued franchise rather than negotiate with individual municipalities, a process that before could take years to complete.

"We look forward to delivering the most advanced technology available in video, voice and Internet services to North Carolina," Marshall said. "Consumers will see a new world of communications and entertainment."

"North Carolinians deserve the benefits of competition," said Rep. Becky Carney, a co-sponsor of the state franchise legislation. "The investment by AT&T shows that eliminating barriers to competition brings choice to consumers and investment to our state."

"There is no doubt that consumers are the big winners today," said Sen. Dan Clodfelter, another co-sponsor. "Land-based video competition will bring better customer service and lower prices. As AT&T's commitment today shows, it also results in new investment in our communities."

According to the Internet Innovation Alliance, increased competition in the video market would result in increased investment across the industry. Competition could also spur new entrants, contractors, equipment-makers, manufacturers and service-providers to create nearly 3,000 jobs in North Carolina.

AT&T's infrastructure and investment will include a new world of communications and entertainment through AT&T U-verseSM service. AT&T is the only national provider to offer a 100 percent IP-based television service, and that makes AT&T U-verse TV one of the most robust and feature-rich services available today.

The planned network investment by AT&T companies in North Carolina does not change AT&T's capital expenditure guidance for 2007 and 2008. AT&T is in the process of implementing the AT&T U-verse network in the Southeast region and plans to provide a comprehensive update later this year.