Verizon Wireless to acquire four Dobson properties

Less than two months after negotiations between the two companies began, Verizon Wireless has signed definitive agreements to acquire Dobson Communications’ wireless operations in California, Georgia, Ohio and Tennessee for about $465 million

As soon as the transactions close during the first quarter 2002, Verizon Wireless will begin converting Dobson’s TDMA operations to CDMA. Verizon Wireless expects to invest about $4 billion nationwide on network technology upgrades to improve service levels.

The Dobson markets, which currently operate under the Cellular One and Alex Wireless brand names, will convert to the Verizon Wireless name after the deal closes. The total population served by the four properties, which have served as roaming markets for Verizon Wireless customers traveling through Dobson’s coverage area, is about 950,000.

Verizon Wireless and Dobson continue to negotiate the possible sale of Dobson’s partnership interest in Arizona Rural Service Area.

--Kelly Carroll, staff writer