NEW YORK (WENY) — New York has approved Verizon’s acquisition of Frontier Communications.
The New York State Public Service Commission announced Thursday that officials gave the $20 billion deal the greenlight. In the deal, Verizon will acquire Frontier and all the company’s subsidiaries.
The purchase was approved in Pennsylvania back in September.
Frontier had been the subject of a large number of consumer complaints in recent years, including many customers in the Northern Tier of Pennsylvania. In 2024, a settlement was reached between Frontier and Pennsylvania, requiring the company to address maintenance issues and customer service concerns.
New York officials say Verizon’s purchase of the company will bring reliable phone and internet service to many area residents.
“This transaction will expand fiber-based broadband services to the underserved and unserved,” said Commission Chair Rory 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.”
Verizon has pledged to invest $150 million in New York alone to expand its broadband network. The state will also benefit from the company’s national Small Business Accelerator Program, according to the PSC.