GCI Rolls Out Digital Local Phone Service in Sitka
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GCI announced today that it has launched competitive digital local telephone service in Sitka, Alaska. GCI will provide this service over its digital, hybrid-fiber coaxial network. GCI's technology offers secure, encrypted digital communication and proactive real-time event monitoring.
According to Ron Duncan, GCI president, the roll-out of digital local telephone service represents a major milestone. "Consumers will finally experience the benefits of competition, that is, consumer choice, lower prices and better technology."
Consumers in Sitka will have 24-hour customer service, the first month of service free, free installation and opportunity to receive monthly Alaska Airline miles. Basic dial tone costs $11.88, an 18 percent savings compared to the incumbent telephone provider's service. Customers who switch to GCI local phone service will not have to obtain new phone numbers. Phone numbers are portable and stay with the customer not with the local service provider.
In addition, local service can be bundled with existing services for increased savings. For example, Sitka residents can now add digital local service with voice mail and 13 other features to their Ultimate Package bundle for $15.49.
GCI's Ultimate Package includes 70 digital video channels and 48 music choice channels; 150 free out-of-state long distance minutes and 64 Kbps cable modem Internet access.
GCI currently provides competitive local telephone service in Ketchikan, Juneau, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kodiak, Eagle River, Chugiak and Wasilla. Since local competition began in Alaska in 1997, GCI estimates consumers have saved more than $30 million dollars. GCI also estimates that they offer service to over 27 percent of the statewide local access lines.
To sign up, Sitka residents may visit their local GCI store located at 208-A Lake Street or call 747-3535 or 1-800-800-4800.
GCI (Nasdaq: GNCMA) is the largest Alaska-based and operated integrated telecommunications provider. A pioneer in bundled services, GCI provides local, wireless, and long distance telephone, cable television, Internet and data communication services. More information about the company can be found at http://www.gci.com.
SOURCE GCI
Released October 1, 2007
