Locals React To Verizon/Alltel Merger
Verizon Wireless says it has completed its $5.9 billion purchase of Little Rock-based Alltel Corp., making Verizon the nation's largest mobile phone company.
Verizon said Friday it will also take on $22.2 billion in Alltel debt.
As a condition of the purchase, regulators forced Verizon to sell overlapping properties in 105 markets across 24 states.
In Nebraska, that includes Boone, Nance, Merrick, Platte, Polk, Colfax, Butler, Dodge, Saunders and Washington counties.
The new multi-billion dollar merger has left many Alltell customers confused and worried.
“I'm concerned about it,” said Brandon Strange.”I had Cellular one when they were previously around and all Alltell bought them out and my rates went up. And now my concern is my rates are gonna go up again because my company go bought out again.”
The alltell website says customers' current service plans, prices and features will stay the same throughout the transition. However, customers will be notified by mail if there are any major changes in the future.
Aside from rates, the other big question on Alltel users minds is call quality.
Steve Griggs says he doesn't mind the transition but wants to see other improvements. “I wish the rates would go down, outstanding phone bills per months and dropped calls and bad reception.”
Good news for griggs, Alltel says customers in the new Verizon wireless markets will see better call quality and more coverage with the merge.
Because the merger is still underway there will be a lot of new updates.
Although Alltel customers' service plans will stay the same through the transition, Verizon says they will begin rebranding Alltel markets in phases throughout the year.
