[GST Telecommunications Activates Local Network in Houston]
Metropolitan Fiber Ring Further Integrates Key Texas Market Into Core ICP Operations
VANCOUVER, Wash., Dec. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- GST Telecommunications, Inc., a leading Integrated Communications Provider (ICP) in California and the western United States, today announced the activation of its metropolitan area network in Houston, continuing the integration of that key Texas market into its core ICP operations.
GST turned up its 38-mile multiple conduit fiber backbone through Houston's central business district, connecting with its previously-deployed voice and data switches. GST is now poised to offer a broad range of facilities-based voice, data, and integrated communications solutions to Houston business customers over its own next-generation fiber optic network.
"One of GST's key focuses has been the integration of strategically valuable business units that we've acquired into our core ICP operations," stated Joe Basile, president and chief executive officer of GST. "Texas is one of the fastest-growing telecom markets in the country, and the activation of our local network in Houston is an important step forward in our efforts to expand our presence there and elsewhere in the state."
GST entered Houston in 1996 with its purchase of TotalNet Communications, a full-service long distance provider. With the installation of voice and data switches, the Company added local dial tone, data, and Internet services to its Houston portfolio. The activation of its local fiber backbone continues the process of integrating its Houston facilities into GST's core ICP operations, connecting that city to the Company's next-generation Virtual Integrated Transport and Access (VITA) network. One of the first of its kind, the VITA network utilizes cell, packet, frame, and IP technology -- along with advanced switching equipment -- to carry both voice and data traffic over a common network architecture, providing enhanced service offerings and superior economic performance to GST and its business customers. |
