Oct 30 2009
Vote Paves the Way for FiOS TV - the Ultimate Home-Upgrade for TV Service Delivered Over the Nation's Most Advanced All-Fiber-Optic Network
Residents of Westford are a major step closer to having a real choice for their cable television services, thanks to a newly approved agreement authorizing Verizon to offer its FiOS TV service via the most advanced all-digital, fiber-optic network straight to customers' homes.
The Westford Board of Selectmen on Tuesday (Oct. 27) granted a cable franchise to Verizon, authorizing video choice for thousands of households here.
The board's authorization brings to 104 the total number of Massachusetts communities where Verizon's FiOS TV is or will soon be available.
"We are thrilled to bring FiOS TV, an outstanding alternative for video entertainment, to residents in Westford," said Donna Cupelo, Verizon region president for New England. "Since the launch of FiOS TV in Massachusetts, we are continuing our efforts to meet the consumer demand for cable TV choice."
FiOS TV is the company's advanced fiber-optic television service, with superior picture-and-sound quality, innovative and interactive features, more high-definition and on-demand programs, and more reliable service at competitive prices.
"As a result of this new franchise, consumers in Westford will be able to choose their cable provider as easily as they choose their phone company," said Cupelo. "Competition drives innovation, value and service quality, and it puts the consumer in control."
Verizon research indicates 87 percent of Massachusetts residents favor more competition and choice for video services. Independent studies have shown that competition in the video market brings enormous benefits to consumers in the form of reduced prices, better packages and improved service.
Verizon's license agreement with the city of Westford is for 15 years. The agreement contains provisions for the network's future growth; financial support and capacity for educational and government access channels; cable service to government buildings; and other important benefits to the city, including insurance, indemnification and enforcement protections.
"Verizon will compete aggressively for subscribers in Westford with our FiOS services, which are fueled by our lightning-fast fiber-optic network," Cupelo said. Verizon soon will begin its door-to-door sales campaign in Westford, explaining the many advantages of FiOS TV to local consumers.