The New York State Public Service Commission has approved Verizon Communications Inc.’s acquisition of Frontier Communications Parent, Inc. and its subsidiaries. The decision includes requirements for Verizon to invest in expanding broadband access and improving digital infrastructure across the state.
“This transaction will expand fiber-based broadband services to the underserved and unserved,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian. “In addition, it will create a company with a stronger financial position that will bring improvements to business operations, optimize Frontier’s networks, expand service offerings, and improve service quality to existing customers. The ability to bundle Frontier service in combination with Verizon mobile wireless will benefit Frontier’s existing customers and enhance the competitiveness of Frontier’s operations.”
As part of the approval conditions, Verizon must invest at least $40 million to extend high-speed broadband to areas lacking adequate service. An additional $90 million is allocated for expanding coverage in territories served by both companies, aiming to increase consumer choice and competition. At least $20 million will go toward efforts supporting digital inclusion within New York.
Verizon’s national Small Business Accelerator Program will also provide benefits in New York, with $150 million dedicated from the program’s $5 billion total budget to support local entrepreneurs and help small businesses adopt digital tools.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA), which represents employees at both companies, supports the Commission’s approval. Other conditions include job protections, commitments on service quality and network reliability, financial requirements, and restrictions on recovering certain costs through customer rates.
Verizon has operated in New York since the late 1800s and currently employs over 12,000 people in the state. In 2023 alone, it invested more than $2 billion locally on plant and equipment upgrades.
Frontier operates nine subsidiaries in New York with over 100,000 access lines and has deployed fiber connections to more than 200,000 locations statewide. Verizon’s initial announcement indicated that acquiring Frontier would add 2.2 million fiber subscribers nationwide and extend its network reach significantly.
According to Verizon, acquiring Frontier—the largest pure-play fiber internet provider in the country—will help accelerate delivery of mobility and broadband services across its expanded footprint.
Further details about today’s decision can be found by searching Case Number 24-C-0618 on www.dps.ny.gov or by contacting the Commission directly.
