If you're on an AT&T mobile in the Rhode Island area, you may have noticed that you're getting snappier performance and fewer slow spots -- that's the result of a $50M investment by the carrier in our state over the past two years which focused on expanding capacity and 4G coverage.

According to a press release distributed today, AT&T has made nearly 175 wireless network upgrades in Rhode Island during 2012, including activating new cell sites, adding capacity, upgrading cell sites to provide fast 4G LTE mobile Internet speeds, deploying high-capacity Ethernet connections to cell sites, and adding or upgrading Distributed Antenna Systems, which boost wireless coverage and capacity in buildings and at major venues like convention halls or sports arenas.

"We know our customers depend on us for fast, reliable mobile Internet connections at home, work and everywhere in between," said Steve Krom, vice president and general manager, AT&T New England. "Delivering for our Rhode Island customers is a top priority and our ongoing investment here is designed to deliver a superior mobile Internet experience, encompassing speed, coverage and reliability."

AT&T launched 4G LTE in the Providence area in December 2012. AT&T 4G LTE is the latest generation of wireless network technology and provides faster mobile Internet speeds and improved performance on a variety of mobile smartphones and tablets. 

"Broadband access is a priority we often hear about as we travel around the state, no matter the location, because it is such a powerful driver for economic development," said Gov. Lincoln Chafee. "This investment by AT&T to expand its mobile Internet network will help more Rhode Islanders and Rhode Island businesses stay connected in today's fast-moving technological world."

"Across Rhode Island, this robust investment in the AT&T wireless and wireline networks is important to spurring the economy and creating jobs. In our wireless world, mobile and broadband networks help create economic opportunities for health care, manufacturing, education, transportation and public safety and virtually every other economic sector," said Patricia Jacobs, president, AT&T New England.

Editorial note: Written from a press release.