Verizon Wireless’ ‘C.O.L.T.’ to Make Pit Stop at Dover Downs for Nascar Monster Weekend
In a continuing effort to provide the best wireless service for race fans during the NASCAR Monster Weekendraces from June 1-3, Verizon Wireless will beef up its network capacity bydeploying a temporary mobile cell site called a COLT (Cell on Light Truck)
at Dover Downs. The COLT will enhance wireless capacity, allowing more
customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls, send and
receive text and picture messages, and download games and ringtones. The
company reports that during the big race weekend Verizon Wireless’ network
will handle more than five times the normal number of wireless calls
compared to a typical race weekend.
”With more than 140,000 race fans and tailgaters expected throughout
the weekend, along with news media and the pit crews themselves, we
anticipate a significant surge in wireless activity,” said Michele White,
network executive director for Verizon Wireless’ Philadelphia Tri-State
Region. “In these instances, we bring in an additional mobile cell site
that works along with our existing network in the area to handle the
increase in wireless calling.”
Quick Facts on the Verizon Wireless COLT
– The temporary cell site can process thousands of calls every hour.
– The 25,000-pound COLT features two retractable masts, a microwave
antenna to link network components, an emergency power generator and a
small office.
– The COLT is also fully equipped with resources needed during
emergencies including equipment, fuel, electrical generators, food,
water and cots.
The temporary cell site is part of Verizon Wireless’ continuous effort
to increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data
network in the Philadelphia Tri-State Region and across the country.
Verizon Wireless has invested $35 billion over the last seven years — $5
billion on average every year since the company was formed — into its
national wireless network as part of its commitment to offer customers the
most reliable service available, including wireless data services such as
picture messaging, text messaging, and the company’s exclusive V CAST
service. Since 2001, the company has invested more than $900 million in its
Philadelphia Tri-State region, which includes Delaware.
