UScellular Continues Network Capacity Expansion

Inside Towers
By John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor

UScellular (NYSE: USM) continues network expansion in different parts of its 21 state operating territory, in mostly rural areas. Through a novel master streetlight attachment agreement signed with the Town of Rumford, ME, UScellular has completed its deployment of the Ericsson Street Radio 4402, a small cell platform created in collaboration with Ubicquia.

This approach leverages existing streetlight infrastructure to enhance 4G and 5G connectivity at a fraction of the cost and time of traditional small cell solutions. With Street Radio 4402 installations that the company says can be completed in a matter of minutes, UScellular has boosted outdoor and indoor coverage in Rumford in a cost-effective manner

“This project represents a significant milestone as we continuously strive to identify the most efficient ways to enhance wireless connectivity in the communities we serve,” said Mike Irizarry, UScellular EVP & CTO. “Doubling network capacity in such a short timeframe and in a cost-effective manner demonstrates the transformative potential of this technology.”

“Our community is thrilled with the enhanced connectivity,” said George O’Keefe, Town Manager and Economic Development Director for the Town of Rumford. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and our residents are enjoying the benefits of a significantly faster and more reliable network while preserving Town aesthetics.”

On another front, UScellular will build three new cell towers with funding support from Grayson County, VA to enhance mobile wireless connectivity and public safety. The towers will bring 5G wireless service to underserved areas in the western most part of the county and will be completed by mid-2026.

Through an innovative collaboration, Grayson County is covering the cost to build the towers, while UScellular is responsible for construction logistics and ongoing maintenance. In addition to the added coverage and connectivity for residents, the county will utilize the new infrastructure to enhance 911 service throughout western Grayson County.

“We have unique connectivity challenges in Grayson County, so we need to think differently to ensure we can provide essential broadband service to our most rural areas,” said Stephen Boyer, Grayson County Administrator. “UScellular shares our commitment to ensuring our people and businesses can thrive in today’s digital economy and have access to the healthcare, education, work opportunities and safety benefits that wireless connectivity provides.”

These new sites will also allow UScellular to expand its fixed wireless access offering, bringing high-speed Internet to more homes and businesses in the county.